Another baby python found in Battersea Park area
Members of the public are being advised to keep an eye out for non-poisonous snakes in and around Battersea Park.
Over the past fortnight three juvenile Royal Pythons have been found in the area, including one today (Thursday) in Chelsea Bridge Road.
They are not venomous and are quite docile. If scared or threatened they tend to roll up into a ball and hide. Their normal diet is small rodents such as mice.
They are popular pets because they are relatively small, good tempered and easy to handle.
Parks police officers are working on the theory that an owner living nearby has abandoned these young snakes or eggs in the park.
They are now appealing for people in the area to contact them if they have any information at all as to who may be responsible.
Insp Stephen Biggs of Wandsworth Parks Police said: “If anyone has information about this we would appeal to them to come forward. We have found three snakes so far and while they do not pose a threat to humans it’s important we establish if there are any more.
“I would also appeal to the owner who may have released them in the park to contact us so that we can make sure these animals are found and properly cared for. The park is no place for them and they are probably absolutely terrified to be here.
“I caught one earlier this week off North Carriage Drive and as I approached it, it simply curled up into a ball at the base of a tree and I was able to pick it up without any problem at all.
“We don’t think there is any risk to humans and we don’t want anyone to be scared or alarmed, but the sooner we can confirm how many are out there the better.
“In the meantime we are urging visitors to the park to keep an eye out and immediately tell us if they spot something.”
The parks police can be called on 020 8871 7532. Alternatively call the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018.