Vets Operate To Remove ‘Egg’ From Snake — And Find Something Else Entirely

Central Ratsnake Saved After Swallowing Fake Egg Mistaken for Food

At the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center in Boyce, Virginia, veterinarians recently admitted an unusual patient—a central ratsnake with a suspicious, egg-shaped lump bulging from his midsection.

Ratsnakes are known to eat real eggs whole without issue, but this “egg” wasn’t moving down the digestive tract. The vets quickly uncovered the problem: the snake had swallowed a fake egg—a common prop placed in chicken coops to encourage hens to lay in specific spots.

Typically, these fake eggs are glued together in clusters of three or more. But when loose, they can pose a danger. In this snake’s case, the “egg” turned out to be a golf ball.

Thanks to a Good Samaritan who found and brought the snake to the center, the veterinary team was able to stabilize the patient and perform surgery to remove the fake egg safely.

“This snake is doing great!” said Dr. Jen Riley, hospital director at Blue Ridge Wildlife Center.

The snake is now recovering and is expected to be released back into the wild within one to two months.

Dr. Riley emphasized the importance of understanding snakes’ role in the ecosystem and urged people not to fear them.

“Snakes are not dangerous and should not be feared,” she explained. “They help control pests like rodents and reduce disease risk. Protecting snakes means avoiding rodent poisons, glue traps, and other hazards.”

Soon, this lucky snake will return to its natural habitat, continuing its vital work in maintaining a balanced environment.