Large Deceased Snake Found in Rural Iowa County, Wisconsin – Authorities Release Details

IOWA COUNTY, Wis. (WKOW) — Authorities in Iowa County have released more information about a large deceased snake that was found along a rural roadway earlier this week, confirming the owner has come forward and the animal likely died from a medical emergency at a local veterinary clinic.

The Iowa County Sheriff’s Office stated in a Friday update that the snake was discovered on Thursday, April 23, along County Highway Z, north of Hillside School. Officials confirmed the animal is not native to the area and was likely being kept in captivity.

According to the sheriff’s office, the owner of the snake contacted authorities after seeing reports of the discovery. This proves believed the snake “experienced a medical emergency at a local veterinary clinic and died,” the office said in its update. The animal had been intended for burial but was instead placed alongside the roadway.

The manner in which the snake was left on a public roadway has caused concern among officials and alarmed several drivers who passed by the area. The sheriff’s office reiterated that the disposal method is troubling and has prompted outreach to the public for any additional information about the incident.

Raija Hansen, president and founder of Archie’s Angels, a reptile education, rescue, and rehabilitation organization, spoke with 27 News about the case. She noted that ordinances for owning reptiles, including snakes, vary widely across cities and counties in Wisconsin, particularly regarding proper disposal of deceased pets.

Hansen emphasized the importance of pet owners familiarizing themselves with local laws, as this can influence how law enforcement handles such situations. She added that in this case, since the owner came forward, authorities can work with them to determine the appropriate next steps.

Hansen also reminded the public that the owner had likely lost a pet and may not have known the correct procedures, especially if they had cared for the animal for a long time. She urged reptile owners to educate themselves on legal and humane disposal methods to avoid similar incidents.

The Iowa County Sheriff’s Office continues to ask anyone with information about the snake or its origin to contact them at 608-930-9500. As of Friday morning, officials said they had no further details about the incident beyond the owner’s statement and the snake’s likely cause of death.