Abandoned python found in bag among hundreds of snakes rescued by Scottish SPCA over five years

A python found abandoned in a bag is among hundreds of snakes rescued by the Scottish SPCA over the last five years.

Between 2020 and 2026, more than 500 snakes came into the SSPCA’s care, with 189 admitted due to welfare concerns and others unwanted, abandoned or strays.

The exotic pets have complex welfare needs and can live more than 35 years.

Monty the python is currently residing at the Aberdeenshire Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre. He was cold and abandoned in a bag outside a pharmacy late at night, with a note explaining that his owner could no longer care for him.

Monty is one of four snakes at the centre that have been waiting more than 100 days to find a new home.

Different species of snake require different needs, with their enclosures allowing them to display natural behaviours.

They also rely on controlled supplementary heat sources and suitable humidity levels.

At the Aberdeenshire centre, a snake obstacle course has been created to allow the intelligent animals to explore.