Three dead snakes were discovered amongst fly-tipped rubbish by a member of the public in west Stirlingshire.
The SSPCA have been drafted in to investigate the grizzly discovery of the boa constrictors, found near Carbeth Loch – between Carbeth and Blanefield.
The snakes were found at one of the entrances to Carbeth Huts, next to Carbeth Loch.
The gruesome discovery was reported to the SSPCA animal helpline on Sunday, January 8. SSPCA officers attended the next day to investigate and found two of the snakes that had been reported. The third was then found on Tuesday, January 10.
Scottish SPCA inspector, Mairi Wright, said: “They were lying close together, next to bags of rubbish at a fly-tipping spot.
“We are unsure of the cause of death for these reptiles, but the circumstances they were found in are very concerning. We are keen to ascertain what happened to these snakes. If anyone recognises these reptiles, please contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”
The Observer understands that post-mortem results on the three snakes were inconclusive. However, as the snakes appeared to be in good condition and were found close together, the SSPCA is continuing to treat the incident as suspicious.
The Scottish SPCA has powers to prosecute under the Animal Health and Welfare Scotland (Act) 2006, as a result, Police Scotland are not involved in the investigation at this time.
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The SSPCA confidential animal helpline is 03000 999 999.
