Snake numbers rocket in North East
Scottish SPCA staff have taken in 72 snakes this year - five times as many as the previous year.
The Scottish SPCA's centre in Aberdeenshire found new homes for a record number of snakes last year.
Staff at the charity's centre in Drumoak rehomed over double the number of snakes than the previous year, with 17 owners taking on the exotic creatures compared to nine in 2013.
Centre manager Graeme Innes said, "Last year was what you would call a bumper year for snakes here.
"We took in a staggering 72 snakes compared to just 15 the year before which would explain the large increase.
"It's fantastic we were able to find new homes for so many snakes but we still have 29 in our care ready and waiting to be offered good homes.
"Snakes might not be everybody's idea of the perfect pet but there are plenty of people who do appreciate them for the stunning creatures they are and we'd like to invite local snake enthusiasts to get in touch.
"We rehomed a total of 706 animals last year, including 204 cats, 124 dogs, 84 rabbits, 63 birds and 21 horses.
"This year we hope to find homes for even more animals and we would encourage those in the area thinking of taking on a pet to pay us a visit. We're open every day and always welcome new faces."
The Scottish SPCA's centre in Drumoak is open daily from 10am-4pm and can be contacted on 03000 999 999.