A family got a shock when they found a 3ft snake slithering around their bathroom.

The RSPCA collected the corn snake, believed to be somebody’s escaped pet, from the home in Grays in Essex on April 16.

Corn snakes can grow to almost 5ft and are not venomous, but may bite under stress or if they smell food.

Joe White, RSPCA animal collection officer and exotics officer, said: “The caller’s daughter found the snake in their bathroom and was absolutely hysterical.

“A lot of people find snakes very frightening so it must have been a huge shock to come across one slithering around the bathroom.

He’s a little skinny but was feisty and that’s usually a good sign

“The snake was obviously quite scared by the commotion too as he slithered inside the toilet.”

Mr White managed to get hold of the snake and checked him over.

“He’s a little skinny but was feisty and that’s usually a good sign,” he said. “I took him to a wildlife centre nearby where they’ll care for him until he’s strong enough to be rehomed.”

The RSPCA said snakes are talented escape artists and will take the opportunity of a gap in an enclosure door, or a loose-fitting lid, to get out.

People with pet snakes are advised to ensure its enclosure is kept secure and locked if necessary.

Anyone who believes the corn snake may belong to them is asked to contact the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018.