The body of a large snake has been found at a Scots beauty spot sparking fears the animal may have been ‘dumped before freezing to death’.
The grim discovery was made at Lochore Meadows Country Park, near Lochgelly, Fife, on Tuesday, February 14, by a member of the public.
It is understood that the snake is a type of boa constrictor which looked to be in good health with no obvious signs of injury. A short video clip shared by the park showed the stricken animal lying on the ground near an outbuilding.
It has a slight bulge in the middle of its body, indicating that it might recently have eaten something and was in the process of digesting its feast.
The disturbing find has not been reported to Police Scotland of the Scottish SPCA but animal charity chiefs have issued advice.
In a statement, they said: “Exotic animals need very specific living conditions. They would experience significant distress and potentially die if left out in the cold.
“If anybody finds an exotic animal outside that is alive then we ask that they immediately call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999 for advice.
“Depending on the animal and the circumstances in which they have been found, they may be able to be safely contained in a cardboard box or similar structure until our officers arrive.
“However we ask that all individuals first consider their own safety before attempting this. If the animal is dead then this should be reported to the local authority.”
Boa constrictors should be kept in a warm vivarium at around 26 to 28 degrees.
Ian Lang, Lochore Meadows park manager, confirmed that a snake had been found in the park on Tuesday. He said: "We don't know how it came to be here and sadly it had died before it was found. It didn't appear to be injured. We arranged for it to be removed and safely disposed of the body."
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