The Bronx Zoo has closed it’s reptile house following the disappearance of an Egyptian cobra. Officials noticed the 20-inch-long snake was missing on Saturday, and they are presumably carrying out a diligent and very careful search.

There’s probably no risk to the public (as long as the snake wasn’t stolen). It’s likely curled up hiding somewhere, not cruising the city looking for trouble. The cold weather also helps since the snake wouldn’t be able to survive outside of the enclosure for long, on the off chance it did get out of the building.

There’s no explanation as to how it escaped, something that I assume is also being investigated carefully considering the typically strict handling and control measures for venomous snakes.