A NINE-YEAR-OLD girl had a shock when she discovered a snake in her cupboard.

Oakleigh Newham, of Curtis Street, Swindon, was looking for her school shoes when she found a kingsnake under a plastic container.

The youngster said: "I couldn't believe what I saw and screamed really loud. I was really quite scared actually.

"It was not something I was expecting to see."

The snake, native to North America, is common as a pet and is not poisonous.

It was taken to Butterfly World in Wroughton by RSPCA inspectors.

The black and white snake can grow up to 5ft, but the one found measures 18ins, and is thought to be less than a year old.

Oakleigh's mum Sharon, 33, said: "It must have come from under the house. It was a complete shock to think the snake had found its way in."

Jo Barr, spokesman for the South West RSPCA, said: "In all probability it is likely that it has escaped from its owner.

"Sometimes we get cases where people are not fully prepared for the responsibility the snakes bring and set them free.

"It was important the snake was found as it has specific needs. It must be kept in an incubator at the right temperature and has a diet of mice and rats."

The kingsnake, also known as Lampropeltis non-venomous, is a black/brown colour with yellow and white rings that form a chainlike pattern.

The snake will now be kept at the butterfly sanctuary in Hay Lane for a week to see if it is claimed.

If no one comes forward it will be re-homed with someone who has experience of looking after snakes.

Anyone who thinks the snake might belong to them, should call the RSPCA information help line on 08705 555 999.