SSPCA appeals for information after python found dead in a bag on Musselburgh beach

The Scottish SPCA has launched an appeal for information after a python was found dead on a Musselburgh beach.

The animal was found in an organza bag by a member of the public on February 27.

The three-foot-long adult royal python was already dead when it was found.

A post mortem showed it had died of malnutrition and could have been dead for some time before being left on the beach.

Scottish SPCA inspector Emma Phillips said: “Sadly, the snake was already dead when it was discovered.

“The person who alerted us to the reptile found it at around 1.30pm on the beach inside an organza bag.

“The snake is an adult royal python and about three feet in length.

“A post mortem showed it was emaciated and died due to malnutrition, so it was possibly dead before being discarded.

“The condition of the python would not have developed overnight and should have been treated much sooner.”

The Scottish SPCA has appealed for members of the public with any information to get in touch.

Ms Phillips said: “If anyone recognises this snake and knows who may have owned it we would urge them to contact us as soon as possible by calling our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”

Royal pythons are not uncommon pets in the UK, and can live for up to 20 years.

SPCA advice is to feed them a diet of defrosted mice and rats.