Police have launched an investigation after several exotic snakes were found abandoned in rural North Lincolnshire.
Humberside Police say they received reports on Wednesday 11 June, that non-native snakes had been dumped in the Twigmoor and Cleatham areas.
Four snakes — believed to be Reticulated Pythons — have so far been captured, but one is still on the loose.
Although non-venomous, Reticulated Pythons are the longest species of snake in the world and are capable of killing prey by constriction. Officers have urged the public not to approach or attempt to capture the missing snake if spotted, and to report any sightings immediately.
A Humberside Police spokesperson said: “In the event that you find one in the wild in the UK, please call police immediately. DO NOT try to catch it yourself, keep an eye on it and give a What3Words location to the police so it can be assessed by an expert and collected appropriately. We would advise keeping dogs on a lead in the areas where these snakes were found.
“These snakes will not attack you. They will only try to defend themselves if they feel threated. We suspect that the snakes that have been dumped were pets and this will make them less likely to bite.”
Officers also provided advice to reptile owners: “PLEASE if you have a pet that you can no longer keep for whatever reason, please take it to an exotic animal shop or animal rescue. DO NOT release them into the wild.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Humberside Police on 101.
(Image: Humberside Police)
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.