Heatwave triggers snake escape alert
Most snake escapes are reported during hot summers.
The RSPCA has asked snake-owners to be vigilant with securing their pets after an escaped boa constrictor was found in Derbyshire.
The six-foot boa constrictor was found healthy and in good condition under a garden shed in Ilkeston. However, because no owner could be identified, it has since been rehomed.
The incident has prompted a warning from RSPCA to exotic pet owners to be particularly careful with their pets' enclosures during the hot summer, especially heatwaves, when most snake escapes are reported.
This is because snakes are much more active during the summer, especially when their owners let them outside to take in some sunlight. While the extra sunlight is good for reptiles, they also move much faster which can mean they escape easier.
Snakes depend on their owners for the correct living conditions, warmth and food for their species, and so being in the wild can be potentially fatal for them.
The RSPCA saw an increase in calls about escaped snakes in 2022, with 110 calls from the Greater London area alone.
RSPCA senior scientific officer Evie Button said: “Last year, we took more than one thousand reports about snakes, with the highest number of calls coming in during the summer months. This is not surprising, as snakes become more active during hot weather - so as the UK continues to swelter this summer, we’re braced for another influx of calls.
“The RSPCA urges all pet snake owners to be extra vigilant at this time of year, invest in an enclosure suitable for the particular species and make sure that enclosure is kept secure - and locked if necessary - when unattended.”
If anyone finds a snake they believe to be non-native, the RSPCA advice is to keep a safe distance, monitor the snake and contact the RSPCA or a reptile charity.
If anyone loses a snake there are a number of lost and found pet websites where details can be logged. It is possible to microchip snakes and the RSPCA recommends that owners ask their exotics vet to do this, so that snakes can be easily reunited if lost and found.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
