Monty escaped his residence after his owner let him roam his apartment while he was away on holidays, most likely escaping out a window.

Government-licensed snake catcher at Orange Snake Service Jake Hansen has received several worried calls from residents since he reported the missing snake on Facebook on Wednesday, but said residents should not be alarmed.

“It’s too cold for the snake to be interested in food because they need sufficient warmth to be able to digest food items,” he said.

“If it did, I’ve seen them eat small possums or rabbits.

“Diamond pythons are known to be quite placid, but can give you a nasty bite if you attempt to pick one up.”

Mr Hansen said that there was no need to be alarmed and no one was in danger, even small children.

He said diamond pythons were commonly found on Sydney’s north shore and there were very few cases of anyone being bitten or family dogs going missing.

“I’ve seen some pretty big ones in Sydney,” he said.

“Possums, rabbits and perhaps chickens are at risk, but I don’t think dogs are on the menu for this snake.”

Mr Hansen said the python was most likely in the vicinity of the old hospital between Margaret and Anson streets, and reminded residents if they found the snake, to contact him directly on 0414 945 124.

He said Monty the python had cream, black and dark green colouring and was most likely immobile, hiding somewhere warm like a roof to escape the cold weather.