Residents in Lincolnshire are being asked to keep their windows, doors and external vents shut as an 8ft boa constrictor is on the loose.

Police have warned members of the public not to approach the snake, which has a white tail and grey, black and brown spots.

It was reported missing from a house in Union Street in Boston at around 7pm on Wednesday.

Lincolnshire Police said in a statement: “We are asking people to keep their windows and doors shut and block any external vents, for example, tumble dryer vents or extractor fan outlets. 

“The missing snake is approx 8 ft and will look to find somewhere warm.  This could be a garden shed, car bonnet, loft etc. Although the snake can curl up in a small place and can last for sometime without food.”  

Boa constrictors are not venomous, but they have another killing method: attacking their prey with their teeth and then constricting it until it dies.

Anyone who spots the snake is asked to call 999 quoting incident 361 of November 28.