THE RSPCA have launched an investigation after an 11ft Burmese python was found skinned and dumped in Evesham.
The charity sent officers to the 3.3m find in Pitwell Lane after receiving reports by local exotic pet experts Axolotl and Reptile Rescue.
When the experts saw that the snake had been neatly skinned from ‘ top to bottom’, which suggested human intervention, they contacted the RSPCA for help.
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Neil Loy said: “This poor snake had been skinned from head to tail and left in a prominent place.
“Due to the neatness of the cuts, there are strong suspicions that a human was responsible for this, and we would like to get to the bottom of this awful incident. We do not know the cause of death or indeed if the snake was alive when the skinning happened.”
Anyone with first-hand information on what happened to the snake should call the RSPCA’s appeals line on 0300 123 8018, quoting incident number 01455722.”
The charity said sadly it was not unusual for the RSPCA to be called to collect snakes that have been abandoned – though this particular incident involving a dead, skinned snake was very unusual.
A spokesperson added: “Often, people are unaware of how much of a commitment pet snakes are when purchasing them. The majority of exotic pets, including reptiles, need a carefully controlled environment requiring access to specialised equipment for lighting and 24-hour heating, and failure to provide this can result in serious ill health.”
The RSPCA urges prospective owners of reptiles to thoroughly research the needs of the particular species and what is required in the care of the animal, using expert sources, and only consider keeping one if they can ensure they are fully able to provide for these needs long-term.
Visit: rspca.org.uk/exotics or more information about the care of snakes and other reptiles.
Anyone who sees a live stray exotic snake should keep a safe distance, monitor the animal and report their concerns.
