This is what has happened to the dozens of snakes found dumped in Sunderland

In the first shocking discovery, 13 royal pythons were found inside two Buzz Lightyear themed pillowcases dumped near a bin outside Farringdon Community Fire Station on Thursday, February 13.

In a disturbing twist days later, another 16 snakes - 15 corn snakes and a male carpet python - were found, again in pillowcases, abandoned in the same spot on Saturday, February 15.

This time the pillowcases had been taped closed and secured with cable ties before being dumped in the bin.

All 29 snakes were immediately taken to the vets by the RSPCA, who were called to both discoveries, but sadly one of the royal pythons died.

Now three weeks on from the first find, the RSPCA has confirmed all 28 snakes are still recovering at a specialist reptile facility and are ‘getting the care they deserve’.

A reptile expert estimated that the abandoned snakes would have been worth hundreds of pounds if they were sold to a loving home.

Investigations into the ‘shocking and upsetting’ incidents are ongoing by RSPCA officers but the mystery around who dumped the snakes and why remains.

Heidi Cleaver, the RSCPA inspector called to the second discovery, said: “It is really concerning to think that someone has had around 30 snakes or more which they have decided to abandon in this cruel and callous way.

“We were in the midst of Storm Dennis at the weekend when these snakes, who need heat and light in order to survive, were left outside in the cold with just a pillowcase to contain them. It would have been very stressful for the snakes to be in such close proximity to each other as well.”

Residents in the area were urged to remain vigilant in case there are more vulnerable snakes dumped in the same spot.

Thankfully there have been no more findings since February 15.

Anyone who has any information about the discovery of almost 30 snakes was urged to call the inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.