ORLANDO, Fla. – A search for an escaped 8-foot King Cobra in Orlando has generated national buzz about the highly venomous snake.
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The cobra was reported missing on Wednesday after it escaped from the home in the 4800 block of North Apopka Vineland Road in Orlando, according to FWC.
"It is crazy. It is crazy," said Michael Auguste, who lives near the search area. "You don't normally here of a King Cobra that's out on the loose."
Media outlets nationwide have reported on the search and it's also garnered plenty of attention on social media.
"So many people are everywhere talking about it," said Auguste. "From Orlando. All of Florida is like 'Hey listen, make sure you're on the lookout.'"
A search of #OrlandoCobra on Facebook brings up a seemingly endless stream of posts. One included photoshopped images of a cobra at Lake Eola.
Another internet meme on Twitter showed a cobra with Mickey Mouse ears and with a caption saying the snake's going to Walt Disney World.
"Mickey's on high alert. He's staying indoors today," said Auguste.
On twitter, a dozen accounts have been created by people claiming to be the Orlando cobra.
People who live near the search enjoy the fun of the online buzz, but many know the danger of the missing snake is real.
"When you hear of King Cobra and you get a little worried because of the venom. If it gets near you, how bad it can get," said Auguste.