Shocked passer-by finds a dead six-foot long boa constrictor in a field near Lutterworth

A snake has been found dead on the edge of a village near Lutterworth amid fears it was cruelly dumped.

RSPCA officers are appealing for information after the body of the six-foot long boa constrictor was found in a field at Ashby Magna, near Lutterworth.

The animal welfare charity believes the snake, found on land off Holt Lane, was abandoned by its owner after it became an unwanted pet.

A shocked passer-by made the grim find when they were out walking on Sunday March 22 and alerted the RSPCA.

Animal Collection Officer Jack Curran was sent to collect the snake and is now appealing for help to trace the person who may have dumped it.

Jack said: “This snake was found in such a rural location I doubt it was an escaped pet.

“I believe it is more likely the poor pet was abandoned, left out in the cold and sadly perished.”

He added: “Sadly, this is not unusual for us to be called to collect abandoned snakes.

“We believe people are unaware of how much of a commitment these animals are - and once they grow in size they can no longer cope.”

Anyone with any information about the incident should call the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.

The RSPCA added: “During this difficult time, our priority is to help animals in need.

“We are already experiencing strain on our centres and frontline due to Covid-19 and this will worsen in the weeks ahead.

“To help the RSPCA though this challenging time, please visit www.rspca.org.uk/give or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181.

“We know this is a difficult time for animal lovers.

“Please visit our website for advice, information and support.

“To help the RSPCA keep rescuing animals like these and keep our 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

“Many owners are concerned about caring for their pets amid the Coronavirus - or Covid-19 - outbreak.

“There’s lots of advice and help on our website”