A LIVE boa constrictor is thought to be on the loose after a man was seen throwing a snake into the canal at Bowbridge near Stroud.

A member of the public, who witnessed the incident around 6.30pm yesterday evening, Thursday, August 12, said the man stated that he could no longer afford to feed the animal.

The snake was described as having a cream zigzag diamond pattern along its length and is believed to be a boa constrictor.

Native to tropical Central and South America, boa constrictors are non-poisonous, can grow as long as 13 ft (four meters) and weigh more than 100 pounds (45 kg).

The species can swim, like all snakes, but prefers dry land.

Stroud wildlife expert Frank Tunbridge said the snake would most likely still be alive but is no threat to humans.

"If it survived the shock of being thrown into a cold canal it is probably still alive," he said.

"These snakes can go as long as six months without food but it depends on when it was last fed.

"When they are kept as pets you usually need to feed them about once a month but if it did get hungry it would probably go for something like a vole, a field mouse, a rat or a fledgling bird.

"If the weather gets really cool it could die in about three to four days but if things warm up it could survive for a while, especially if it found a barn of hay or some silage to curl up in."

Gloucestershire Constabulary’s rural and environmental crime officer PC Jon Palfrey added: "We understand that in the current financial climate people may be struggling to take care of their much loved pets.

"But we assure you there are solutions to the problem that mean you do not have to go to such extreme measures."

A spokesman for the RSCPA, which is working alongside police in this instance, said: "Releasing a non-native animal into the wild is against the law, as is failing to provide for the needs of an animal in your care. "Before taking on any animal, it is extremely important that you thoroughly research its needs and requirements.

"Snakes are a significant and long term commitment.

"Boa constrictors can live for 40 years in captivity and can grow up to four metres in length.

"If you find yourself unable to care for a pet, there are numerous organisations that you can contact for help and advice.

"There is never any excuse for abandoning your pet." The man who threw the snake was described as white, around 45 - 50-years-old, balding and with a moustache.

He was wearing black jeans, a black shirt and boots.

He left the area in a grey Ford Fiesta, driven by a woman.

Police are eager to speak to this man and ask anyone who saw the incident to contact them on 0845 090 1234, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting incident number 437 of August 12.

Did you witness the incident? If so, feel free to contact SNJ reporter Nick Wakefield on 01453 769 414 or by email at nicholas.wakefield@gwent-wales.co.uk

**Boa constrictors will only strike when threatened, and will bite in defence. This bite can be painful, especially from large snakes, but is rarely dangerous.