A few weeks ago we reported in the Border Telegraph that a dead snake had been found near Stow.

The Scottish SPCA is now appealing for information after a second reptile was found at the same railway path.

The snakes were found just weeks apart at a disused railway path in Stow, close to Station Road. Scotland's animal welfare charity was first alerted on November 23, when Cathyrn Holloway discovered a red and orange striped corn snake.

Cathryn said: "It gave me the fright of my life. It certainly isn't something you expect to see while out waking your dogs.

"I didn't know if the animal was alive or dead but as soon as I spotted it, I quickly put my dogs on their leads. And, as we gradually got closer to it, there was very little movement and only after I prodded it a few times with a stick I began to calm down a bit as I realised it was dead." The second snake found by a member of the public, an orange and black corn snake was found at the same pathway on December 14.

Animal Rescue Officer Amy Dow said: "Sadly, both snakes were already dead when they were discovered.

"While it is possible these snakes had strayed from home, the fact both were found on this railway path just three weeks apart suggests someone could have dumped them there.

"It's likely they perished in the cold weather as snakes need heat to survive.

"We are very keen to trace the owner or owners of these snakes and we would urge anyone with information to contact us as soon as possible." Abandoning an animal is an offense and anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.

Information can be reported to the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.