Anaconda snake found in Edinburgh street

The Scottish SPCA was called on Saturday after street cleaner Gordon Fraser discovered the snake at West Pilton Bank.

The yellow anaconda, nicknamed William, is now in the care of the charity’s Edinburgh and Lothians Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Balerno.

Gordon said: “I noticed the snake lying behind some cardboard next to a fence and thought it was a toy at first. Then it moved and I realised it was real.

“The snake looked in really poor condition so I tried to coax him into a cardboard box and we took him back to the depot.

“I’m pretty shocked to find out the snake is an anaconda.

“My colleagues kept telling me not to touch him but I don’t think he would have survived for much longer if I hadn’t helped him.”

Inspector June Chalcroft said: “Yellow anacondas need experienced owners as they are temperamental and will bite.

“However, William was extremely thin and dehydrated when he was found curled up outside and he didn’t put up a fight.

“We rescue all types of animals, including snakes, but they tend to be smaller species such as corn snakes. It’s extremely rare for a four foot anaconda to be found in public.

“After being treated at a vets for three days, William is now being looked after at our rescue centre and is much brighter.

“At this stage we don’t know how he came to be found outside. He may have escaped from home but we also have to consider the possibility he has been abandoned.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who recognises this anaconda or has any information on 03000 999 999.”