Python gives residents a nasty shock

Published on 26/06/2012 02:37

police discovered a ten-foot python in a tenement close after terrified residents called for their help.

Officers were called to the flats after residents stumbled upon the reptile at the entrance of a common close.

Police raced to Linwood, Renfrewshire, and prepared to tackle the snake amid fears it could attack children or small animals.

But they soon discovered the python was dead and arranged for the carcass to be hauled away. Officers believe it could have been dumped by its owner and died because of ill health.

Sergeant Alan Mack of Strathclyde Police said: “The python was out in the open and was big enough to attack a child, so neighbours were obviously concerned about that.

“Initially our officers weren’t sure whether the animal was dead or alive as it wasn’t moving.

“Pythons can go into a catatonic state after they have eaten, so we had to be careful.”

The discovery was made in Bridge of Weir Road, Linwood, on 14 June, and the python was taken to the local police office by animal welfare experts.

Sergeant Mack added: “It is likely the python had become ill and died and the owner just didn’t know what to do with it.”