Snake found in Sutton after it was spotted at reservoir

The snake, believed to be a royal python, was first spotted at King's Mill Reservoir in Sutton at 7pm on Saturday, June 22.

Gemma Savage from Kirkby searched for the snake after seeing a post about it on Facebook.

She then located the snake on Sunday afternoon, metres away from the car park, based on distinctive buttercups in the original photo.

She noticed that others were also looking for it but were unable to locate it. She said she wanted to ensure its safety.

Gemma added: “We were excited to have found it, as we were concerned for its safety at night. Especially once the temperature dropped.

“We did not know if it was alive as it was curled up at first – but then it started moving.

“We were a bit unsure if it was nasty or not, but it was fine. It is a couple years old.”

Gemma, who is a big animal lover herself, said she was just pleased to have found the snake and mentioned that a woman who owns snakes was with her at the time and knew exactly what to do.

The snake was taken to Mansfield Aquatic, Reptile and Pet Centre, in Mansfield Woodhouse.

It is now being cared for and reported to be alert and well.

Gemma added: “The snake is doing really well, but has to feed and recoup before he is up for visitors.

“The centre are trying to find original owners as they believe he could be lost.”

Evie Button, senior scientific officer, said: “The RSPCA always recommends that anyone who sees a stray exotic snake keep a safe distance, monitor the situation and contact a local reptile specialist or our helpline on 0300 1234 999.

“There is also comprehensive advice and information for the public on our website.

“Our frontline officers are out rescuing animals that may be in life-threatening situations, so a few extra minutes checking that your snake is secure could help save our officers’ time and allow them to save an animal that’s in danger.”

Snakes are more active during hot weather. With this in mind, the RSPCA is urging all pet snake owners to be extra vigilant at this time of year, invest in an enclosure suitable for the particular species, and ensure that the enclosure is kept secure – and locked if necessary – when unattended.

Another reason more snakes escape in the summer is that some owners take them outside to take advantage of the natural sunlight.

While sunlight is good for reptiles, the RSPCA urges owners to ensure that their pet is kept secure when doing so, as they can warm up and move very quickly on a sunny day.

For more information on what to consider before adopting a snake, visit the RSPCA’s website at www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/other

The RSPCA added that royal pythons can live longer than 20 years in captivity and owners should be prepared to care for them for many years.

These snakes are usually found in the wild in West Africa and can grow to around 150cm, but size can differ between males and females.

Mansfield Aquatic, Reptile and Pet Centre has been approached for an update.