The snake - which has now been named Treacle - is believed to have crawled out from another flat via pipes and wall cavities

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© Scottish SPCA
A woman had the shock of her life when she saw this two-foot snake slithering along the hallway in her block of flats.

However, she managed to usher the Mexican black kingsnake into a pillowcase while animal rescuers went to her aid in Glenrothes, Fife.

The snake - which has now been named Treacle - is believed to have crawled out from another flat via pipes and wall cavities.

Treacle is now being cared for by the Scottish SPCA at the Edinburgh and Lothians Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre at Balerno.

Animal Rescue Officer Kieran Smart said: "The lady who found Treacle was rather brave and managed to contain him in a pillowcase until I arrived.

"Although Treacle was flicking his tail and letting us know he wasn't best pleased that we'd put an end to his adventure, he soon settled down after a short ride to our centre in the back of my van. He actually seems to be a fairly docile chap who is in good overall health.

Treacle may have found his way into this lady's flat by travelling along pipework within the wall cavity so we think it's possible his owner lives within the building.

"However, it's a very large building with lots of flats inside so we're asking this person to contact us to reclaim their lost pet. If no-one claims Treacle we'll find him a loving new home."

The Mexican black kingsnake can reach up to five feet long is a constrictor, using its powerful body to envelop and asphyxiate its prey.

Anyone who recognises Treacle is being asked to call 03000 999 999.