Five Reticulated Pythons Spark Rescue Effort in Lincolnshire

Five enormous reticulated pythons, the longest snake species in the world, have been discovered in the north Lincolnshire countryside, causing alarm among locals. The snakes were abandoned in the wild by an unknown owner, with four found near Twigmoor and Cleatham in mid-June. Following the sightings, Humberside Police issued a warning to dog owners to keep their pets leashed due to the potential threat posed by these large constrictors. A fifth snake was later found, and all five are now being cared for at RSG Reptiles in Alford.

Reticulated pythons, native to Southeast Asia, are known to prey on sizable mammals and can weigh up to 75kg. Rob Stokes, who runs RSG Reptiles with his family, believes the snakes were abandoned by a pet owner who could no longer care for them. Stokes, along with his son George, helped to find one of the pythons after a police call for assistance.

The rescued snakes were found in relatively good health, though dehydrated. They are being treated for mites, a common issue. The fifth snake, however, was in a more critical condition, suffering from respiratory problems and parasites. The rescue and care of these large snakes has resulted in significant costs, including the need to build suitable enclosures.

Stokes explained that they are fundraising to cover the costs of the snakes' care, including veterinary bills and the construction of new enclosures. He emphasized that the snakes will likely remain with them, and if rehomed, they would only go to professional keepers. He noted the challenges of caring for such large animals, particularly when financial difficulties arise.

Humberside Police is investigating the abandonment of the snakes under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The police have urged anyone with information to come forward. They also advised the public to contact the police immediately if they encounter a snake in the wild and to avoid attempting to capture it themselves. The police emphasized that the snakes pose a greater risk to pets and wildlife than to humans.