Police issue News:
Isle of Wight Police are making a fresh appeal for information to locate two flying tree snakes reported stolen from Cowes.  It is believed the snakes were stolen sometime between Wednesday, November 25th and Saturday, November 28th, 2009.

The two snakes were removed from a locked vivarium, which was inside a building at Northwood Business Park near Cowes.

Investigating officer, PC John Davis of the Isle of Wight’s Targeted Patrol Teams (TPT) said: 

“Several lines of enquiries have been followed in recent weeks, but the whereabouts of these snakes is yet to be confirmed.

“Flying tree snakes are very rare, making it possible that someone may have noticed them or heard about someone trying to sell them.”

The snakes are described as having bright green and black chequered skin with white chins. The owners have told police these snakes are mildly venomous, but are not known for aggressive behaviour. However, anyone without proper knowledge of handling them could receive a snake bite, and would be advised to seek immediate medical advice and attention as a precaution.

The NHS advises that if you are bitten by an exotic snake in the UK, you should dial 999 to request an ambulance. More information is available at: www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Bites-snake/Pages/Treatment.aspx

Anyone with information is asked to phone Newport Police Station on 101. Mini-Com users can call 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. From outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, call 0845 045 45 45