The RSPCA is appealing for information after a three-foot milk snake was found in a garden in Margate.
The red and white snake was discovered by a surprised member of the public in Grosvenor Place on Thursday (February 21) who managed to put a box over the snake and contacted the RSPCA.
Inspector Grace Harris-Bridge collected the reptile and took it to an exotics centre for care. She is now hoping to find the owner of the snake, which is believed to be a lost pet.
She said: “Unfortunately, it isn’t clear what has happened and how the snake came to be in this garden. The caller had recently moved into the house and said they had found a peat-like substance under the stairs which is a material commonly used as bedding for reptiles.
“Then they found the snake in the garden but had no idea how long it had been there. The snake is in a good condition but a little cold from being outside and not in the right environment.
“Reptiles are quite complex pets to keep. They are completely reliant on their owners to meet their welfare needs, which include the need to be provided with the correct levels of heat, light and humidity, plus an appropriate diet for the particular species.”
Many of the snakes the RSPCA’s officers are called to collect are thought to be escaped pets. The RSPCA would always recommend owners invest in an enclosure suitable for the particular species and that the enclosure is kept secure (and locked if necessary) when unattended. T
The RSPCA advises that if a snake is found by a member of the public, they should keep a safe distance and contact 0300 1234 999.
The RSPCA is appealing for information and hopes to find the owner but if no owner is found then the reptile will be rehomed.
If you are the owner or have more information please call 0300 123 8018.
To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit the website.