When you step into the bathroom, do you ever glance behind the shower curtain, just in case? Or maybe check the mirror, half-expecting to see something strange? These are common thoughts inspired by scary movies. But there’s one more thing to consider — and this one is real.
In different parts of the world, people have faced an uncomfortable surprise: sitting on the toilet when a creature climbs up the pipes. From snakes to spiders, it does happen. Here’s a list of animals to watch for before you sit.
1. Snakes
In 2010, a three-foot corn snake came up through a toilet in a 19th-floor New York apartment. Snakes are good swimmers, able to hold their breath and fit into tight spaces. While it’s rare, experts say it is possible. Most snakes won’t survive the tough journey through the sewer, but it’s not impossible.
2. Rats
Rats live in sewers and are excellent swimmers. They can swim for days and are always looking for food. Sometimes, they follow the scent from kitchen drains and end up in toilets. It happens more often in basements or ground-floor homes. If a pipe is empty, a rat might crawl in and not find its way back out.
3. Squirrels
Unlike rats, squirrels usually enter through roof vents. They climb down pipes and reach the toilet. Since they prefer light over dark pipes, they might stay there. For example, in 2010, a squirrel was found splashing in a toilet in Oklahoma. It took two people to safely remove it.
4. Frogs
Frogs sometimes end up in toilets, especially in places like Florida and Australia. They look for water and may slip through small cracks or open vents. An easy solution is to place mesh screens over the vent and call a plumber to check for gaps in the pipes.
5. Possums
In some cases, even possums have been found in toilets. In Australia, a baby possum surprised a homeowner. Experts suggest keeping toilet lids closed and placing a heavy object on top if you spot any animal. This helps keep them inside until help arrives.
