Appeal after 6ft Burmese python fatally injured

An investigation was launched after a snake, similar to the one pictured, was found injured in Devon

An investigation is under way after a large snake was found fatally injured in Devon.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the reptile, found on Northcote Hill in Honiton on 15 June, had been identified as a Burmese python and measured about 6ft (1.8m).

Insp Ollie Heaton said on initial discovery it was alive but had sustained an injury by "unknown means".

It comes after another Burmese python was found about 12 miles away (19km) near Monkton Wyld Holiday Park in Dorset the same week.

Insp Heaton said: "The relative proximity and the fact that these animals are of the same species is one avenue of inquiry that we are exploring, although at this time there is no information to suggest any direct link.

"Thankfully the animal located in Dorset remains well and has found a new home in Somerset."

The snake found in Honiton, however, had to be put down due to the severity of its injuries, he said.

'Number of hypotheses'

Insp Heaton said a number of hypotheses were being explored.

“Firstly, that the animal has escaped and come to harm after this event, secondly, that the animal has been mistreated, neglected, injured and then dumped, and thirdly, whether the animal has been abandoned due to difficulties in providing care, and has subsequently come to harm."

He urged anyone struggling to care for animal to contact an animal refuge centre.

"We would strongly urge that people do not abandon any animal; they are afforded statutory protections and deserve to be treated with due care, respect and dignity," he added.

Police said that inquiries were ongoing to establish the circumstances and urged anyone with information to contact them.