Snake in the grass: Dog walker finds 8ft boa constrictor in a field

A dog walker got a bit of a shock when he found an 8ft boa constrictor in a field.

The snake was discovered near a housing estate in Banbury, Oxfordshire, on Saturday.

The animal is 8ft 6inches (2.4m) long and weighs 12.12kg and is said to be doing well.

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The RSPCA, who were called to the scene, said it is not yet known how the snake ended up in the field.

Deputy chief inspector Melanie Fisher said: ‘It’s hard to know for sure how this snake came to be in the field but I think the caller got a bit of a surprise.

‘It’s not every day you stumble upon an 8ft snake while out walking the dog.

‘The snake may have escaped from a vivarium or may have been abandoned.

‘Sadly she’s not microchipped so we do not know where she has come from. She is still in our care and is now doing really well despite the cold weather.’

Snakes are unable to produce their own body heat so they cannot function properly when outside their usual temperature range, making a venture into a cold English field a dangerous proposition.

However, the RSPCA said the boa constrictor is one of dozens currently in its care looking for new homes.

‘The RSPCA is seeing a growing number of exotic animals – including snakes – being abandoned, which is thought to be because they are too much of a commitment for some people,’ said Ms Fisher.

‘Many people do not realise what they are taking on when they buy these pets so we are urging prospective buyers to do their research before getting one.’

Anyone with information about the snake found in the field in Banbury is being asked to call the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018.