THE number of exotic animals being abandoned in Worcestershire is on the rise, says the RSPCA.

Figures show that snakes, lizards and other exotic animals are being brought into the county at an increasing rate to be kept as pets, only to be neglected and eventually released.

The animal rescue charity says it is becoming an increasing problem, and the warning comes only days after a corn snake was found at business' distribution centre in Hanley Swan, on Tuesday.

It was presumed to be an escaped pet.

Laura Quinn, of the RSPCA South region, said: "It's becoming an increasing problem in Worcestershire. We are seeing more and more exotic pets being brought here, and then abandoned in the county.

"People seem to think animals like snakes and lizards can be domesticated like dogs or cats, but that's not the case. They're wild animals and will behave accordingly.”

In 2013 ten exotic animals were reported to the RSPCA as abandoned, which rose to 29 last year.

So far this year, 12 exotic pets have been reported as abandoned.

A spokeswoman for the charity has said people need to think carefully about the needs of the animals before they purchase one as a pet.

She said: “The needs of exotics can be challenging to meet because they are fundamentally linked to certain behaviours, diets or environmental conditions in the animal’s natural environment that can be difficult to replicate in a home.

"The RSPCA is experiencing widespread neglect of exotic animals across the country. For many people an exotic animal represents too much of a commitment which is manifested in the growing number of exotics being abandoned and handed to shelters around the country.

"Exotics are commonly found in pet shops nowadays too, however, it is sadly often the case that they are handed over to buyers with very little information about how to care for them, or the commitment that is involved in keeping them happy and healthy.

"It is for this reason that we are urging potential owners to research and look into what is required in the care of their exotic pet first before taking one on so they know what is involved and how long it is likely to be for."