The 8ft python discovered at Stansted Airport
SHOCKED postmen were left rattled after discovering a live eight-foot snake inside a parcel at Stansted Airport.
The albino reticulated python was spotted as the box was scanned by an X-Ray machine. The package was due to be put onto a plane to complete its journey from Harlow to Exeter.
The reptile – a species commonly kept as a pet - had already spent eight hours in the UK postal system.
Royal Mail immediately called the RSPCA to rescue the snake, which was then taken to an Essex wildlife centre while its owner was traced.
Inspector Steve Reeves said the creature - which was unharmed despite its ordeal - had a lucky escape.
“Snakes are very sensitive to their environment and could well become ill,” he said.
“For instance, a cold-blooded reptile could suffer if it was put into a cold place like an airplane hold."
And he said the creature was lucky to have been discovered.
He said: "It may sound strange, but it would have been easy to miss the fact that there was such a large snake in this parcel.
"It was just curled up and was very still - so the mailmen picking up the parcel would have had no reason to know what was inside.
"All the machine picked up was that there was something organic in the shape of a snake - so they must have got quite a shock when they opened up the package. It makes you wonder what could go undetected."
The RSPCA discovered that the reptile had been purchased over the internet, and the buyer has since arranged for a specialist courier to deliver the snake to his address.
Sophie Adwick, Exotics and Trade Officer for the RSPCA, added: “This python is a living creature with specialised needs, not some object to be tossed into the mail so thoughtlessly.
“This shocking case shows just how easy it is to order an exotic animal via the internet and the complete disregard that some people have for animal welfare.
“If you are thinking about getting an animal, visit a reputable seller or rescue centre - not a website.”
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