Shelter appeals for reptile fans to rehome snakes

Animal carer Nina Powell with ball python Ivy who has been waiting nearly a year to find a home

An animal shelter is calling on reptile enthusiasts to help rehome six snakes in its care, including a long-term resident ball python called Ivy, who has been waiting nearly a year for adoption.

Corn snakes, ball pythons, a Texas rat snake and a Nicaraguan dwarf boa are all looking for homes, the Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (JSPCA) said.

Corn snakes are naturally docile so would make a great first-time pet, according to the shelter which is reaching capacity.

"We do seem to have them for a really long time before they're rehomed, but they are actually really easy and safe pets to have, and they're really lovely," animal carer Nina Powell said.

Among the residents is Hades, who is also a ball python who has been at the shelter for a long time.

Hades is calm and easy to handle and with gentle introduction, she would make a good pet for a family with older children, the shelter said.

Ivy is described as a "gentle and shy girl who loves nothing more than to curl up under her hot hide and watch the world go by".

For experienced keepers, Noodle, a striking Texas rat snake, is recommended.

Snakes require secure vivariums with proper heating, humidity, and UV lighting.

The team offers guidance on diet, substrates and decorations, and suggests buying second-hand equipment to reduce costs.

"They're really easy to maintain," Ms Powell said.

"They're very, very low maintenance. You don't need to take them for walks or do anything like that. And they're also just really interesting to look at."