THIS slithering snake was certainly not where it was supposed to be.

Mystery surrounds how the colourful non-native corn snake found its way on to the busy M3 at junction 13 - not far from Eastleigh's Premier Inn hotel.

The reptile was spotted wriggling along the verge by maintenance teams from EM Highway Services, who look after 1,200km of roads in the south.

Often kept as a pet, the albino corn snake is not venomous and is likely to have escaped a home or been abandoned.

EM Highway Services environmental manager Ricky Taylor, said: “Operatives were performing routine maintenance when they noticed some movement on the verge.

“They investigated it and found a non-native snake. They managed to capture and keep it safe until an EM ecologist arrived to identify it and arrange for its removal.

“This is one lucky snake as I'm sure it wouldn't have survived long in the current temperature.

“My assumption is that it's someone's pet from the local area. We have asked a reptile group to look after it, as it shouldn't be outside at this time of year. Hopefully it will be ok.”

Anyone who believes the snake belongs to them should call Mr Taylor on 01962 892371.