The RSPCA rescued a corn snake which was found hiding in a wood shed in Macclesfield.

The adult snake was found amongst bin bags in the shed by a member of the public who had quite a shock when they discovered what was inside.

RSPCA Inspector Caren Goodman-James collected the one metre long orange and white snake from the property in Wilmslow Road on Sunday (5 July) and is now appealing to find the owner.

She said: "The member of the public who contacted us had quite a shock when they were looking in their wood shed and came across this snake slithering amongst the bin bags. It's not every day you find a snake in your garden shed!

"We don't know how long this snake may have been on the loose but the reptile was generally quite healthy and had clearly been owned as was used to being handled.

"If you live near Wilmslow Road and have lost a snake, or have any information on where it might have come from, please contact us on our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018."

Corn snakes are not native to Britain and would not be able to survive long term in the wild here, so it is probably a pet that has come from someone's home.

Caren added: "It's likely that this snake has escaped which is a timely reminder to snake owners that they must ensure that their animals' accommodation is secure.

"Snakes are not only good escape artists, they, like other exotic pets, have specialist needs which are difficult to meet in a domestic environment. Anyone thinking of taking on that responsibility needs to thoroughly research what it entails before deciding to commit to getting one."

The RSPCA collects more snakes over the summer. This might be the result of escapees becoming more active in the warmer weather or escapes happening when owners take their snakes outside for some sun.

While it is good for snakes to be exposed to natural sunlight, we urge owners to ensure snakes are kept secure, as reptiles can move very quickly as they warm up on a sunny day. Snakes can be microchipped and we recommend owners ask their exotics vet to do this so that snakes can be easily reunited with their owner if lost and found.

The corn snake is now being cared for at a rescue centre whilst the charity continues to search for its owner. If no owner comes forward then the snake will be rehomed.

To help the RSPCA keep rescuing animals like these and keep their animal hospitals and centres running for emergency treatment and round the clock care through these unprecedented times, please donate whatever you can spare at www.rspca.org.uk/covid.