20/07/2026 21:04 - Actualidad
The peaceful daily life in the neighborhood of Colegiales was shaken when posters began appearing on the streets warning about the loss of 'Piti', a supposed boa constrictor measuring over 3 meters in length. According to the flyers, the animal had escaped through the terrace of a house in the area of Céspedes and Zapiola streets.
The message, which quickly went viral on social media and news outlets, included curious details: it claimed the snake was not aggressive, that it answered to its name 'despite being a reptile', that it used to 'sunbathe every day', and, to reassure neighbors, that it was 'spayed'. Recommendations were even circulated not to try to capture it and to contact Civil Defense if sighted.
However, on July 20, 2026, the story took a surprising turn. 'Piti' never existed, nor did the family claiming to search for her. It was all a covert advertising strategy devised by a dog walker named Lucas to promote his business.
In an interview with the program '¿Y qué?' on Vorterix, Lucas explained that the idea was 'to get some visibility, but not that much.' The plan included a 'second part': a flyer offering his services with the phrase: 'Don't want to go out because they say there's a loose boa? Don't worry, I walk your doggies with lots of love, patience, and responsibility while you stay safe at home.' The young man admitted he found it funny because it was implausible that a snake would answer to its name.
What started as a joke or marketing strategy could have legal consequences. Sources with access to the case indicated to the newspaper La Nación that the prosecutor in charge of the investigation is analyzing what criminal charges might apply, as the episode caused the mobilization of state resources and generated unnecessary public alarm.
This viral episode also reopened an important debate: the ownership of wild animals as pets. In Argentina, wildlife is protected by the Law 22.421 for the Conservation of Fauna, enacted in 1981, which prohibits the capture, transport, trade, and possession of wild animals. Specialists remind us that species like tortoises, monkeys, foxes, and boas cannot and should not be pets.
The case of 'Piti' reminds us in a friendly way that virality is not synonymous with truth. Before sharing information, even if it seems harmless or has been posted by several profiles, it is ideal to question its origin and seek reliable sources. Verifying helps us build a more informed and safer community for everyone!
Original source: Chequeado
Alfredo S. Quiroga
