Deadly snake rescued in Manchester after surviving 4,000-mile trip from Pakistan

One of the world’s deadliest snakes has been rescued by the RSPCA in Manchester after surviving a 4,000-mile trip from Pakistan.

A forklift driver at Manchester Brick Specialists in Salford spotted the saw-scaled viper in a shipment of bricks that had arrived from south-east Asia last month.

The tiny yet highly venomous creature was soon confined to a cardboard box by the manager, Michael Regan, and reported to the RSPCA.

“I knew to keep a safe distance but obviously had no idea how deadly this snake was – it was pretty shocking,” Mr Regan said.

“Looking back now, it really was a good job it was spotted and dealt with or who knows what could have happened… I am glad it is now safe in a new home,” the 40-year-old added.

RSPCA Inspector Ryan King said he was initially sceptical about the call.

“However, I only had to take a quick look to realise we were dealing with a reptile which was more than capable of killing people with its highly toxic venom.”

Mr King, dressed in protective clothing, was able to safely place the creature in a snake bag before its transportation to a new home with a special licence to care for venomous reptiles.

“It is amazing that he survived a 4,000-mile journey and managed to live for weeks – and in such a cold climate – when arriving in England,” Mr King said.

“It was quite an honour to deal with this snake and I am pleased he has a home where he will be looked after.”

The RSPCA would always recommend that anyone who sees a stray exotic snake to keep a safe distance, call their helpline on 0300 1234 999 and monitor the animal until they can get there.