ANIMAL protection officers were yesterday trying to determine if an exotic snake found dead in a North Wales river was deliberately killed. The young seven-foot long black and brown boa constrictor was discovered jammed between two rocks in a river on Station Road, Llanfairfechan. RSPCA officers said it died in suspicious circumstances with its head under the water. They are now trying to trace the owner. Experts from the animal charity fear the snake may have been killed because its owner was unable to invest the time needed to care for the reptile. RSPCA animal collection officer William Galvin said anyone with information should get in touch. "This animal was found in extremely suspicious circumstances and I would like to find out more about how it died," he said. "I am keen to discover who the snake belonged to and would ask anyone who knows who the owner might be to contact me. A boa constrictor can grow up to 16ft long and here lies part of the problem. Someone may have bought this reptile when it was two feet long and not realised what was involved in caring for it and how big it grows." A 2004 vet survey showed more and more exotic animals were suffering because of the ignorance of their owners. The government is considering introducing animal welfare legislation which will oblige them to care for their animals properly. Mr Galvin reminded potential owners to think carefully before buying any animal. "Anyone who is thinking of giving a home to any pet must research the creature fully so they know how to provide for their animal for its lifetime," he said. "To keep a boa constrictor requires specialist knowledge and equipment." CAN YOU HELP? Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the confidential RSPCA national cruelty and advice line on 0870 5555999 | 
