THE RSPCA has appealed for help after a snake was found in a Welsh garden.

The milk snake was found in a garden in Wrexham by the homeowner who contacted the RSPCA.

RSPCA inspector Mark Roberts, who collected the milk snake from the garden, said: “The snake was very cold but still alive. After warming up overnight, the snake was much more active.

“This is likely an escaped pet, so we are appealing for the owner to come forward.”

Reptiles require a carefully-controlled environment as they are ectothermic which means that they rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature.

When reptiles cannot warm up as required they are unable to function properly, so a cold snake would find it difficult to move normally, feed, digest its food or maintain its immune system to prevent disease.

Milk snakes are non-venomous constrictors and are kept by some people as pets. They are generally quite placid, however, if a member of the public spots a stray snake, we would recommend that they:

• Treat any unidentified snakes with caution
• Never try to pick up a snake, unless absolutely certain that it has been correctly identified and that it is not venomous
• Keep a safe distance, give the RSPCA helpline a call on 0300 1234 999 and monitor the animal until we can get there.

Anyone who may have information about this snake should contact the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018. Calls are treated in confidence.

If you spot an animal in distress, please call the RSPCA's 24-hour helpline on 0300 1234 999.