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Colorado Student Discovers Viper in Suitcase, Rehomed

3/30/2026

27 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A University of Colorado student found a juvenile slender hognose pit viper in her suitcase after returning from Costa Rica.
The 18-gram snake prompted a response from the Denver Zoo (DZ) and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW).
Colorado Parks and Wildlife evaluated options, including returning the snake to Costa Rica or euthanasia.
Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) rehomed the snake to provide specialized care.

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Story summary

A University of Colorado student found a juvenile slender hognose pit viper in her suitcase after returning from Costa Rica.
The 18-gram snake prompted a response from the Denver Zoo (DZ) and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW).
Colorado Parks and Wildlife evaluated options, including returning the snake to Costa Rica or euthanasia.
Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) rehomed the snake to provide specialized care.