Rab the corn snake drops in for breakfast

A stray snake found by a man while he was drinking his morning tea could have been living in his wall for 18 months.

The snake could have been living in the wall for 18 months. Picture: PA

• The snake has been named Rab after the man who found him

• Neighbours lost a snake 18 months ago but have since moved out.

The man was shocked to discover the corn snake in his flat on Main Roads, Beith, North Ayrshire, yesterday and took the reptile to a local vet, who contacted the SSPCA.

The snake has been named Rab after the man who found him and is being cared for at the charity’s Glasgow rehoming centre.

Neighbours in the block of flats lost a snake 18 months ago but have since moved out.

Animal rescue officer Tricia Smith said: “The man spotted Rab just as he was sitting down with his morning cuppa and he got quite a shock.

“He said that his neighbours upstairs lost their snake around a year and a half ago, and he thinks Rab may be theirs.

“Unfortunately, they moved out six months ago and we have no way of contacting them to find out if Rab does belong to them.

“If the heating has been on it’s possible a snake would manage to survive for 18 months inside a wall cavity, provided they have been able to feed.”

Ms Smith said it is possible somebody else nearby has lost their snake as the animals are known as “notorious escape artists”.

“We’re keen to hear from anyone who recognises Rab as we’d like to return him home if he has gone missing,” she added.

“If no one comes forward, we’ll be looking to find Rab a knowledgeable owner who can provide him with the care he needs.”

Anyone who recognises the snake can contact the SSPCA on 03000 999 999.