The missing 12-foot python found safe and sound after escaping enclosure at Louisiana mall

A 12-foot python has been found safe and healthy after it escaped an enclosure at Louisiana’s largest shopping mall.

Blue Zoo Baton Rouge, an interactive aquarium, shared a video on Facebook of the python, Cara, being rescued from inside the mall.

"We couldn’t be more excited to share with you that the search is over!," the post stated.

Cara had been on the loose after experts and officials, including local firefighters and police, searched for the reptile for hours after she escaped on Tuesday.  

“We’ve brought in multiple snake experts to assist in the search, in addition to an animal tracker that is working with us throughout the evening and overnight,” the Blue Zoo shared on Facebook.

The interactive aquarium added that it has purchased “night vision cameras to see more difficult areas” and motion sensor cameras. Plumbing and HVAC companies are also deploying additional cameras in an effort to catch the snake.  

The Blue Zoo shared that it has seen “evidence of Cara moving within our ceiling space” but that it will remain closed to visitors on Wednesday “for her safety.” 

“We all love Cara and their dedication and passion for her return is evident,” it added. 

The Mall of Louisiana was open to shoppers on Wednesday.   

The snake is not poisonous, The Associated Press reported. The Blue Zoo said in a statement on Tuesday that Cara is a “friendly snake that enjoys her time interacting with guests during our Snake Education Shows.” 

The Blue Zoo confirmed to USA TODAY that there was little chance of Cara leaving the area around the aquarium, but there are cameras in vents in the mall. 

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Follow reporter Asha Gilbert @Coastalasha. Email: agilbert@usatoday.com.