A SNAKE which dropped on a couple in an Ipswich park has today been given a new home after nobody has come forward to claim it.The 4ft-long rat snake was discovered late on June 9 when it jumped from a tree close to where the couple were canoodling in the arboretum in Christchurch Park.

A SNAKE which dropped on a couple in an Ipswich park has today been given a new home after nobody has come forward to claim it.

The 4ft-long rat snake was discovered late on June 9 when it jumped from a tree close to where the couple were canoodling in the arboretum in Christchurch Park.

A search ensued and when park rangers found it early on Sunday morning it was docile because of the cold conditions.

Mark Smith, who works for the Ipswich Borough Council, said: “When we found the snake it had a few scrapes and marks on it and it had lost some scales.

“But today it is like a totally different snake. He is very lively and is difficult to get hold of because it is moving so fast.

“He fed on Saturday and has since shed its skin.”

But the mystery as to where the snake came from has deepened after the rangers had just one phone call from a possible owner.

Mr Smith, 39, said: “It was a lady who had lost a snake about two years ago but after chatting to her we discovered it was a different type of snake she lost.

“I am quite happy to look after him though and think I might even get him a partner in the future and try to breed them.

“I haven't named him as yet but once his character starts to come out some more I might.”

Sam Pollard, Ipswich Borough Council's park manager, said: “All we can think of is that someone has disowned it and put it in the park.

“Nobody has come forward and unless they are on a very long holiday and still yet to return I think it will always remain a mystery.”

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