THE RSPCA has launched an investigation after a boa constrictor was found dead after being set on fire in a Hampshire town.

The snake, which was approximately 5ft in length, was found on burnt grass with what appears to be the remains of cardboard and carrier bags surrounding its body. 

A member of the public discovered the snake at around 6am on Monday, April 8 in Wyndham Street, Aldershot, and called Hampshire police. The RSPCA were then called to investigate the discovery.

RSPCA inspector Jo Bowling is investigating for the animal welfare charity. She said: "This was an incredibly sad discovery. It’s not clear if this snake was set on fire before or after they died. 

"The snake was partially burnt. We have received a picture taken at around six this morning showing the snake in a different position - we’d ask if anyone moved the snake to let us know.

"It may well be that the snake was already dead and someone didn’t know how to dispose of the body. The best course of action would have been to take the snake to a vet.

"Boa constrictors and other exotic animals can be expensive to keep and require specialist veterinary care, there’s more information on the RSPCA website.

"We are asking people living in the area if they had working CCTV or Ring Doorbell footage that may have picked up someone looking suspicious - possibly carrying a heavy black bag.

"We are urging anyone with information to call the inspectorate line on 0300 123 8018, quoting incident number 01232584.”

There is more help and advice for animal-owners struggling during the cost of living crisis on the RSPCA website here.