Missing python from Ocean Beach Library mysteriously returns

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Darwin, the four-foot-long python and beloved mascot of the Ocean Beach Library, mysteriously disappeared and reappeared after a two-day search.

The community of Ocean Beach was alarmed when Darwin, the library's mascot, went missing. Posters were quickly put up, and a $200 reward was offered for his safe return. Despite a thorough search of the library, Darwin was nowhere to be found until he reappeared just as mysteriously as he vanished.

Darwin is not just a mascot; he plays a vital role in the library's "Read to a Reptile" program. Every Wednesday afternoon, children gather to read to Darwin and another reptile, a Bearded Dragon, as part of a unique therapy initiative.

The disappearance of Darwin sparked a significant response from the community.

With Darwin safely back at the library, the "Read to a Reptile" program can continue.

All facts in this report were gathered by journalists employed by KSWB. Artificial intelligence tools were used to reformat from a broadcast script into a news article for our website. This report was edited and fact-checked by KSWB staff before being published.