'Snakes are on the loose' as RSPCA issues new warning across the UK

The UK's leading animal welfare charity has issued a warning for the public to be on high alert during the balmy summer months for escaped snakes roaming around the country. The nationwide caution comes in the wake of an incident last week (July 7) where the RSPCA was called to deal with a stray snake that had slithered away from a flat situated above a London chippy.

Fresh data, released ahead of National Snake Day (July 16), indicates that reports of snake incidents tend to spike during the hotter months, specifically July, August and September. Last year saw a total of 383 cases reported during this period alone, marking an 18% increase compared to 2023 (323 incidents).

READ MORE: Get 30% off menopause supplements for bloating women 'wish they'd found sooner'

With the advent of heatwaves and warmer weather, the RSPCA is concerned that this summer could see another surge in numbers. In 2024, the charity received nearly 270 calls about loose or stray snakes in areas such as Essex (21), Norfolk (20), Greater Manchester (17), West Yorkshire (17), West Midlands (16) and Hampshire (14).

Snake owners are being urged by experts to exercise extra caution and ensure their pets' enclosures are securely fastened. RSPCA senior scientific officer Evie Button warned that these slithering "escape artists" will seize "take any opportunity of a gap in an enclosure door, or a loose-fitting lid to make a break for it".

Being ectothermic creatures, snakes depend on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. If their enclosure fails to maintain an appropriate temperature, snakes may attempt to escape to warmer surroundings, reports the Express.

Evie commented: "As the UK continues to swelter this summer, we're braced for another influx of calls. The RSPCA urges all pet snake owners to be extra vigilant at this time of year, invest in an enclosure suitable for the particular species and make sure that enclosure is kept secure - and locked if necessary - when unattended.

"Our frontline officers are flat out trying to rescue animals that may be in life-threatening situations. So a few extra minutes checking that your snake is secure could help save our officers' time and allow them to save an animal that's in danger."

The RSPCA has noticed that during the warmer months, some snake owners take their pets outside to bask in the natural sunlight.

While beneficial for reptiles, it's crucial for owners to keep their snakes secure outdoors, as they can become quite active and fast-moving in the heat.

Evie added: "Sadly, we also deal with a lot of abandoned pet snakes. We find that many people are unaware of how much of a commitment these animals are when they take them on, which we believe contributes to the concerning number of animals every year who have sadly been abandoned when their owners can no longer meet their needs.

"Exotic pets such as snakes often end up in the RSPCA's care after people realise they're not easy to care for, or the novelty wears off.

"Others are rescued after they have been abandoned or been released on purpose, which then could pose a risk to our native wildlife.

"The RSPCA urges prospective owners of reptiles such as snakes to thoroughly research the needs of the particular species and what is required in the care of the animal, using expert sources.

"People should only consider keeping a snake if they can ensure they are fully able to provide for these needs."

Should you stumble upon a snake that appears to be non-native, the RSPCA recommends maintaining a safe distance, observing the reptile, and consulting their website for guidance on the appropriate course of action.

For further details on what to ponder prior to adopting a snake, head over to the RSPCA's website.