AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after a dead python was found on a Musselburgh beach.
The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after the three-foot snake was found by a member of the public on Thursday afternoon.
Emma Phillips, Scottish SPCA inspector, said: “Sadly, the snake was already dead when it was discovered.
“The person who alerted us to the reptile found it at around 1.30pm on the beach inside an organza bag.
“The snake is an adult royal python and about three feet in length.
“A post mortem showed it was emaciated and died due to malnutrition, so it was possibly dead before being discarded.
“The condition of the python would not have developed overnight and should have been treated much sooner.
“If anyone recognises this snake and knows who may have owned it, we would urge them to contact us as soon as possible by calling our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”
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