Jessica and Johnathan Perry have found at least 25 snakes inside the Salvisa, Kentucky, home they bought in August, and contractors uncovered several dens beneath its foundation. Some of the snakes measured 6 feet long.
Beneath the foundation, contractors found several dens and eggs the couple described as “dozens and dozens,” including some that appeared years old.
The house was the couple’s first home purchase together as a married couple. They said a professional inspection before closing turned up no sign of snakes. By their November interviews, they’d found at least 25 inside.
Jessica spotted the first snake on the porch about 3 weeks after the purchase, while taking out the trash. Home alone with her son, she called her husband and her father for help.
More snakes appeared over the next several days. About a week after that first sighting, Johnathan and a friend found 2 adults and several young snakes in the basement.
The couple said neighbors later told them snakes had been a problem at the property for decades. Jessica recalled 1 neighbor’s response: “I’m surprised that the previous owners didn’t tell you all that the snakes were free with purchase.”
In a November 10 interview, the snakes were identified as nonvenomous rat snakes. The Perrys nevertheless said they’re worried about their 5-year-old son. Johnathan described a fear that a snake could reach the upper floor and curl around the child’s neck in bed.
Jessica said they’ve already spent thousands of dollars trying to address the infestation. After she had a panic attack, the family stayed in a hotel.
“I didn’t want to stay here. I didn’t feel comfortable here,” she said.
The family has gotten a few cats in hopes of discouraging the snakes. They also check inside the house for snakes every day.
