PREVIEW

A family in Lincolnshire had a terrifying surprise when they found a 3ft (1m) long snake hiding under their sofa.

The Ark Wildlife and Dinosaur Park keepers received an urgent call for help from a 'clearly distraught lady' who had noticed the reptile's head peeking out.

By the time staff arrived at the home in Boston, the family of four had already fled to the back garden, leaving the metre-long Florida kingsnake comfortably nestled under the sofa, unaware of the chaos it had caused.

The wildlife park team, based in Stickney, Lincolnshire, have affectionately named the harmless snake Mickey. It's believed that Mickey slithered in through an open door.

Jamie Mintram, who retrieved the slippery visitor and took him back to the wildlife park, said: 'When I turned up, the whole family were standing outside in the garden. They were not very happy about his (the snake's) presence.'

Mr. Mintram empathised with the family's reaction, explaining: 'If you aren't used to snakes, having one turn up in your house in the middle of the night is probably going to freak you out.'

Mickey, who was found 'lethargic' due to the cold, was taken back to the park. Now warmed up and fed, 'he is doing rather well,' said Mr Mintram, noting that the snake had 'become more active.'

The team has successfully reunited Mickey with his owners, who disclosed that his actual name is Snakey.

Florida Kingsnakes typically grow to about 3ft (1m) in length, though they can reach up to 5ft 11in (1.8m), according to Ark Wildlife & Dinosaur Park. A spokesperson for the charity suggested that Mickey 'probably entered the home looking for warmth,' adding that he 'wouldn't have survived for long outside' in the chilly conditions.