Abandoned Snake Found In McDonald’s Takeaway Tray By Staff

A snake was found abandoned at a McDonald’s outlet in England on Saturday night, leaving the staff startled.

A staff member found the reptile, a three weeks old corn snake, in a plastic takeaway tray. The staff then informed the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) about it and animal collection officer Shane Lynn was sent to pick up the snake. The reptile was taken to a specialist and would be returned to the owner.

"It looks as though he’s been abandoned by someone who can no longer provide him with the care he needs. Unfortunately, this is something we often see happening with exotic pets and reptiles, and reports of animals being abandoned are at their highest this time of year," Lynn said.

The organization said there was an 85 percent increase in the number of snakes abandoned in the summer months.

Dr. Stephanie Jayson, RSPCA’s senior scientific officer, said these reptiles completely depend on the owner for survival.

“We believe that people may buy them with little idea of how difficult they can be to keep and the animals are sometimes neglected when the novelty wears off and the commitment hits home. This is why we would encourage anyone thinking of getting an exotic pet to find out as much as possible about the animal’s needs and whether they’re the right pet for them," Jayson added.