An animal rights charity is appealing for information after the bodies of three snakes were found at a fly-tipping spot near Glasgow.
The Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) said the boa constrictors were discovered by a member of the public at a site near Carbeth Loch in Blanefield.
It said two of the snakes were found among rubbish on 9 January and that a third was discovered in the same location the next day.
A postmortem was inconclusive, the SSPCA said, adding that the fact the snakes appeared to have been in good condition before their deaths and were found in the same spot meant the incident was being treated as suspicious.
The boa constrictor is a large, nonvenomous snake which kills by wrapping itself around and crushing its prey. It is native to countries throughout South America but is often bred elsewhere in captivity and sometimes kept as a pet. A typical adult is about 3 metres (10ft) in length and requires a large, heat-controlled enclosure.
Carbeth Loch sits about 10 miles north of Glasgow and is a popular site for walkers, runners and cyclists.
Anyone with any information about what happened to the snakes is being asked to come forward.
SSPCA inspector Mairi Wright said: “The snakes were found at one of the entrances to Carbeth Huts next to Carbeth Loch. They had been dumped at the side of the road, close to Carbeth House.
“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 and how they came to be there.
“If anyone recognises these reptiles, please contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”
