Abandoned snakes found at Glasgow Botanic Gardens

A corn snakeImage source, Getty Images
Image caption,

Corn snakes are native to North America and the Caribbean

  • Published

Three corn snakes have been rescued from Glasgow's Botanic Gardens after being dumped by an "irresponsible" member of the public.

The non-venomous snakes were discovered in a Victorian glasshouse at the park in the city's west end.

A sighting on Monday sparked an extensive search by staff before the reptiles were located.

An animal welfare officer from the Scottish SPCA later took them to a rescue centre.

The charity said the snakes were being cared for and were in good health.

It is not known how long the snakes were in the glasshouse before they were discovered.

Image caption,

Staff at the glasshouse were distressed by the discovery

Glasgow City Council said park staff were "distressed" by the discovery.

A spokeswoman said: “An irresponsible individual caused alarm to staff at the Botanic Gardens by dumping three live snakes in one of the glasshouses.

“Luckily we have a member of staff with knowledge and experience with snakes who quickly identified them as non-venomous corn snakes.

"The snakes were quickly captured after an extensive search and the Scottish SPCA was called.”

Corn snakes, which are native to North America and the Caribbean, are popular reptile pets.

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