Police: Venomous viper stolen from aquarium

X-rays were taken of 3 snakes to make sure they didn't eat missing reptile

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updated 3:57 p.m. ET Aug. 10, 2008

GALVESTON, Texas - Police were investigating the disappearance of a venomous snake from an aquarium in Galveston, Texas, and said they believe the reptile has been stolen.

The 10-inch African bush viper was last seen Thursday evening at the Moody Gardens aquarium.

Officials said the fastener holding a padlock on the snake exhibit appeared to have been tampered with and damaged.

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The snake's venom is not deadly to humans but could cause serious health problems.

Staffers have taken X-rays of three vipers to make sure they did not eat the missing snake.

The same snake went missing for two days last month. Workers found it hiding on a metal screen sealing the top of its enclosure, but cannot explain how the snake got up there.