Three huge boa constrictor snakes found dumped alongside a load of rubbish bags

14 January 2023 , 16:50

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An animal welfare charity has issued an appeal after the snakes were found dead (Image: Scottish SPCA/Edinburgh Live)

Three huge snakes were found dumped alongside bags of rubbish sparking a major investigation.

The boa restrictors, which kill their prey by crushing them, were found dead by a passerby at a fly tipping spot.

Investigators are working to find out how the snakes died and said the circumstances are "very concerning."

The reptiles were discovered near Carbeth Loch in Blanefield near Glasgow, Scotland.

Mairi Wright, an inspector at the Scottish SPCA, said the reptiles were lying close together next to bags of rubbish.

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Usually found in the tropical rainforests of the Caribbean and South America, the species are also kept as pets in other countries.

"The snakes were found at one of the entrances to Carbeth Huts next to Carbeth Loch," Ms Wright added.

The reptiles were discovered at a fly-tipping spot in Blanefield, Scotland (Scottish SPCA)

"They were lying close together, next to bags of rubbish at a fly-tipping spot.

"We are unsure of the cause of death for these reptiles, but the circumstances they were found in are very concerning."

An adult Boa Constrictors can grow up to 12ft but averages between 5ft and 9ft.

The species makes a great exotic pet but adults need to be kept in a large enclosure.

Ms Wright added: "We are keen to ascertain what happened to these snakes and how they came to be there.

"If anyone recognises these reptiles, please contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999."

They were lying close together next to bags of rubbish (Scottish SPCA)

Boa constrictors' skin is mostly tan coloured with large dark ruby red patterns running along the body.

While a diamond pattern runs down each side of the body, often with a lighter pattern inside.

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Young boa constrictors tend to be brighter in colour and get darker with age.

With regular handling, the snake can become very tame but care should always be taken with those larger than 5ft.

The reptiles live for an average 20 to 30 years with one recorded at 40 years of age.

Laura Sharman