MEMPHIS, July 25 -- A 5-foot-long boa constrictor named Buffy is missing in Memphis, but its concerned owner says the natural predator is completely harmless. Dana Shields said Buffy managed to escape from her yard this month near the Galloway Golf Course, but she urged residents not to let the snake's looks fool them, The Memphis Commercial Appeal reported Wednesday. "He's not a threat," said Shields, 39. "He can't eat anything larger than a rat. I just don't want someone to hurt him." S hields said that while the boa constrictor would occasionally wrap itself around her neck, it was done out of love and not for food or sport. But she does recognize the effect Buffy's appearance can have on strangers, perhaps explaining why he hasn't been returned since disappearing July 8. "People screech to a halt when they see him," Shields said. Shields has offered a $300 reward for Buffy's return. MagazineLane.com
