One of the world's deadliest snakes found on industrial estate in Salford (original) (raw)
One of the world’s deadliest snakes was found on an industrial estate in Salford after surviving a 4,000-mile trip from Pakistan.
The highly venomous animal travelled inside a shipping container to Manchester Brick Specialists last month.
A forklift driver spotted the reptile lying among a pile of bricks on December 17.
Logistics manager Michael Regan trapped the animal in a cardboard box before reporting the find to the RSPCA.
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After researching online, staff a the Langley Road firm matched the snake to an image of a saw-scaled viper – but had no idea just how dangerous it was.
The saw-scaled viper is found in parts of India and the Middle East and is the snake responsible for the most human deaths each year.
Many scientists believe it to be responsible for more human deaths than all other snake species combined, making it one of the most dangerous animals in the world for humans, according to Safaris Africana.
The animal was transported to a new home (Image: RSPCA)
RSPCA Inspector Ryan King, who was called to deal with the snake, said: “The report came to us that a saw-scaled viper had been spotted but I was a bit sceptical.
“Sometimes we get to jobs like this and it turns out to be a harmless grass snake - we have even attended snake reports which turn out to be plastic toys.
“However, I only had to take a quick look to realise we were dealing with a reptile which was more than capable of killing people with its highly toxic venom.”
Wearing full protective clothing, Ryan was able to safely place the reptile in a snake bag.
It was then transported to an establishment with a special license to care for venomous reptiles.
Ryan continued: “I just think it was so lucky that they had spotted the snake - they are very small and it could have easily bitten someone and it seems he has been in the brickyard for about a month.
“Anti-venom is available in the countries where the viper originates from but the snake is so venomous - even then it does not always save the victim.
The reptile is considered one of the deadliest in the world (Image: RSPCA)
“It was quite an honour to deal with this snake and I am pleased he has a home where he will be looked after.
“It is amazing that he survived a 4,000-mile journey and managed to live for weeks - and in such a cold climate when arriving in England.
“As an RSPCA rescuer working over Christmas you never know what animals or situations you'll be called to deal with. Our rescue teams will be out in all weathers this winter, rescuing animals from abuse, neglect and suffering so we are calling on the public to Join the Christmas Rescue and help our rescuers be there for the animals in need.”
RSPCA Inspector Ryan King (Image: RSPCA)
Manchester Brick Specialist manager Michael told of his disbelief when he discovered how deadly the snake was.
The 40-year-old said: “I knew to keep a safe distance but obviously had no idea how deadly this snake was - it was pretty shocking.
“Looking back now it really was a good job it was spotted and dealt with or who knows what could have happened.
“The container was shipped at the beginning of November so it seems amazing that the snake has survived for seven weeks away from its natural environment but I am glad it is now safe in a new home.”
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