Python found in rubbish bin

Police believe the snake was abandoned by its owner and are now trying to track him or her down.

A snake expert from Leoben identified the animal as a non-toxic python. The reptile is about 1.2 meters long. Adult pythons can grow up to two meters long and weigh between one and three kilograms.

The snake was temporarily stored in a bucket and police called the Graz Reptile and Amphibian Society.

Experts said the snake appeared to be in perfect health – but could not have got into the bin itself and must have been left there by its owner. Police and the Reptile Society are asking for any witnesses to come forward.