It's not what you expect with your morning cuppa: an uninvited guest in the shape of a corn snake
The Scottish SPCA is seeking the owner of the stray reptile who surprised an Ayrshire resident as he was having his breakfast.
Scotland's animal welfare charity was contacted on Thursday after a man discovered the creature in his Mains Road flat in Beith and took it to a local vet.
Now named Rab, the corn snake is being cared for at the Scottish SPCA's Glasgow Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre.
Animal rescue officer Tricia Smith said: "The man spotted Rab just as he was sitting down with his morning cuppa and he got quite a shock.
"He said that his neighbours upstairs lost their snake around a year and a half ago and he thinks Rab may be theirs.
"Unfortunately, they moved out six months ago and we have no way of contacting them to find out if Rab does belong to them.
"If the heating has been on, it's possible a snake would manage to survive for 18 months inside a wall cavity, provided they have been able to feed."
She added: "It could also be that someone else nearby has lost their snake as they are notorious escape artists.
"We're keen to hear from anyone who recognises Rab as we'd like to return him home if he has gone missing.
"If no-one comes forward, we'll be looking to find Rab a knowledgeable owner who can provide him with the care he needs."
Anyone who recognises Rab is asked to call the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.
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