A schoolboy had an unusual start to his day when he stumbled across a three-foot-long snake slithering along a cycle path on his way to school. The snake, thought to be a granite corn snake, is not native to the UK - but is a popular choice for pet owners.
They can grow to around 150cm long, with females often being larger than males, while they are not venomous, like all snakes, they do have the ability to bite.
The boy's mum, Fiona, said the snake, found in Deeside, is now safely in good hands where it will stay until its keeper can be found.
The RSPCA recently warned exotic pet owners about the importance of secure enclosures, as warmer weather can increase the likelihood of these animals escaping. The animal welfare organisation received 1,219 reports concerning pet snakes in distress last year, peaking at nearly six calls per day during the hottest summer months.
RSPCA Scientific Officer, Evie Button, said: "Snakes are excellent escape artists and will take the opportunity of a gap in an enclosure door, or a loose-fitting lid to make a break for it."
She urged pet snake owners to be particularly vigilant during summer when snakes become notably more active.
The RSPCA advises potential snake owners to undertake comprehensive research about the specific needs of the species they intend to keep. They emphasise that only those who can fully cater to these needs should consider keeping a snake as a pet.
Pet snakes rely entirely on their owners for the correct accommodation, heating, lighting, and food. All of these conditions should mimic their natural habitat as closely as possible to maintain their health and allow for natural behaviour.
Neglect can lead to serious ailments, dehydration, injuries, and parasitic infections, which if left untreated, can prove fatal.
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