The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after two dead snakes were found in the same location in Stow just three weeks apart, writes Kenny Paterson.
The charity were alerted on November 23 when a member of the public discovered a red and orange-striped corn snake at a disused railway path close to Station Road.
A second orange and black corn snake was found on December 14 at the same location.
SSPCA animal rescue officer Amy Dow said: “Sadly, both snakes were already dead when they were discovered.
“While it is possible these snakes had strayed from home, the fact both were found on this railway path just three weeks apart suggests someone could have dumped them there.
“It’s likely they perished in the cold weather as snakes need heat to survive.
“We are very keen to trace the owner or owners of these snakes and we would urge anyone with information to contact us as soon as possible.”
SSPCA say abandoning an animal is an offence and anyone found guilty of doing so risk a ban from keeping pets for a fixed period or life.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.