Sssssssurprise! Walkers stumble into snake on The Wrekin
This snake is being nursed back to health after it was found dumped on The Wrekin by walkers.
The corn snake is now in the care of staff at Telford's Exotic Zoo after it was found abandoned with a plastic tub on the landmark.
Scott Adams, owner of the Exotic Zoo, said the breed is one of the most common chosen for pets.
He said: "It is quite aggressive so it was probably chosen as a pet but when he didn't calm down the owners have abandoned him.
"It is the worse thing that could be done, to leave him outside at this time of year because it is so cold. At the moment we're gradually raising his temperature and he is doing okay."
After the snake was found yesterday, Mr Adams has encouraged people who are having problems caring for exotic pets and reptiles to seek advice.
He said: "Obviously there are lots of people out there who can help, including the RSPCA and we offer advice and assistance to people.
"Before we've spoken about people abandoning terrapins in local ponds. Not only does it often kill the animal but it usually affects the local wildlife.
"Lots of people do make impulse buys of pets.
"Reptiles in particular are very popular, things like corn snakes and bearded dragons, but children's interest can often go leaving parents to look after the animals."
Today, Mr Adams is set to appear on Blue Peter with a range of so-called 'scary' animals in preparation for Halloween.
He will be appearing on the show with snakes and tarantulas, alongside show host Radzi Chinyanganya – a former pupil of Newport's Adam's Grammar School.
