A family got an unwelcome surprise when they found a 3ft corn snake lurking in their bathroom.
The RSPCA was called to collect the reptile, thought to be somebody’s escaped pet, from a home in Grays, Essex on April 16.
RSPCA animal collection officer and exotics officer Joe White said the caller’s daughter was ‘absolutely hysterical’ after stumbling across the animal.
The snake was ‘a little skinny’ but ‘feisty’ and has been taken to a wildlife centre to recover.
Corn snakes can grow to almost 5ft and are not venomous, but may bite under stress or if they smell food.
Mr White, who specialises in exotic animals, said: ‘The caller’s daughter found the snake in their bathroom and was absolutely hysterical.
‘A lot of people find snakes very frightening so it must have been a huge shock to come across one slithering around the bathroom.
‘The snake was obviously quite scared by the commotion too, as he slithered inside the toilet.’
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He added: ‘He’s a little skinny but was feisty and that’s usually a good sign. I took him to a wildlife centre nearby where they’ll care for him until he’s strong enough to be rehomed.’
Snakes are ‘talented escape artists’ and will take the opportunity of a gap in an enclosure door, or a loose-fitting lid, to get out, the RSPCA said.
People with pet snakes are advised to make sure its enclosure is kept secure and locked if necessary.
Anyone who believes the corn snake may belong to them is asked to contact the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018.
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