The RSPCA is calling for tighter controls on the trade an ownership of exotic pets after a crocodile was found in a shed in Rugby and househunters found an abandoned snake in Nuneaton.

The four-foot caiman crocodile was discovered living in a shed measuring just 12ft by 6ft in New Bilton.

It was found in December 1999 by police during a raid on the house for unconnected matters.

The crocodile, which was badly ill, had been smuggled into the UK from Germany by a builder who bought it from a colleague.

It was suffering from osteoporosis of the jaw because of a calcium deficiency and its growth was stunted.

The shed has no ultra-violet light which was necessary for the crocodile to get vital vitamins. The tiny pool of water left for it was inadequate and full of blood and it had been fed on dead chicks when it should have been eating fish and red meat.

Its owner, who did not have a Dangerous Wild Animals licence, said he bought the crocodile for 120 as his colleague was going to put it to sleep.

He did not declare at customs or seek a licence for it.

The crocodile was rescued by the RSPCA, but later died during a routine operation.

RSPCA inspectors have revealed that incident was just one of over 600 in the Midlands last year.

People looking round an empty house in Wheat Street, Nuneaton in May found a three-foot corn snake which had been left behind by the previous occupants.

The estate agents and viewers thought it was a toy until it moved when it was poked with a broom.

RSPCA inspector Neville Reilly said the snake had been fending for itself for a month before it was discovered.

He said:

“It was in good condition, although hungry, and had probably been able to survive on small mice and crickets.

“This is yet another example of unwanted exotic pets being left for the RSPCA to deal with.”

Regional Manager Stephen Mulholland called for the laws covering these animals to be tightened, including new rules to force pet shops to carry a DWA licence.

He said that there should be regular checks on the pets by the local authority and vets.

He said:

“We are deeply concerned about the number of exotic animals, including dangerous wild animals, now being kept as pets and the amount of suffering involved.

“Many people buy them with little idea of how difficult they are to keep and the animals are neglected when the novelty wears off and the commitment hits home.”