Allotment holders in South Wales got the shock of their life when they discovered a 6ft (1.8-metre) boa constrictor among their vegetables.
The red-tailed snake was found by a member of the public at a community allotment site in Newport on 14 June.
It was quickly transported to a local police station before the RSPCA drove it to a specialist care facility in the West Midlands.
The giant snake is believed to be someone’s pet, but it is not known where it escaped from.
Stephanie Davidson, RSPCA animal collection officer, said: “This would have been a pretty unbelievable find at an allotment – with a 6ft, red-tailed boa constrictor coming for a visit.
“However, it is another reminder of what remarkable escape artists these exotic animals can be.
“We regularly respond to escaped snakes, and continue to highlight the importance of safe, secure and appropriate accommodation for these animals, who have such complex needs.
It was discovered by an allotment-holder in Newport. Pic: RSPCA
“Snakes can also be microchipped – and we’d urge anyone owning one to explore whether this is a possibility, to ensure they can be returned home more easily should they stray.”
Anyone with information about the snake – or who may know the owner – has been urged to contact the RSPCA’s inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.
