Can you spot the snake in this photo?

Can you spot the python hiding out in this car? Photo / Facebook / Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers

A massive python decided to hitch a ride with an unsuspecting Queensland driver after discovering a cosy place to rest in a car bonnet.

The carpet python slipped under the bonnet and if it wasn't for an eagle eyed onlooker this uninvited passenger might have given someone a very rude shock.

They reportedly tried to stop the snake but once it had found a toasty spot it wouldn't budge and it was time to call in the professionals to safely remove the reptile.

The Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers posted a picture of the stowaway snake to their Facebook page after it was found under a panel happily warming itself on the engine.

The snake was discovered near Coolum Beach but the experts said the sneaky serpent could have hitched a lift from Noosa, 28km away.

The snake catchers are used to handling giant pythons. Photo / Facebook / Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers

One Facebook user wanted to know how they removed the animal "without having to do serious mechanical work and injuring the snake".

The catchers explained that the process involved a lot of patience and gently moving the snake around until it was in a position to be lifted out.

"Just a lot of gently prodding and ticking of its tail! Eventually he came out in to an area I could get him out without hurting him," they said.

The snake (circled) was found hiding under the bonnet. Photo / Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers

Of course the professional snake handlers have no qualms handling snakes as they do it on a daily basis, but for some people finding a stowaway python would be grounds for abandoning the car completely.

"I would literally crash my car if that came out while I was driving! Note to self CHECK ENGINE FOR SNAKES!!" one Facebook user commented.

"I would faint on the spot!" another said.