THE discovery of a snake s corpse at a recycling centre has prompted Uttlesford District Council to remind residents not to use green-lidded bins for dead pets. The body of the creature, believed to be a member of the python family, was discovered at one

THE discovery of a snake's corpse at a recycling centre has prompted Uttlesford District Council to remind residents not to use green-lidded bins for dead pets.

The body of the creature, believed to be a member of the python family, was discovered at one of the recycling centres used by the council, where waste left in green bins is sorted for recycling.

Because the snake was not discovered until it had reached the centre, it is not possible to determine whereabouts in the district it originated from.

The snake was found among waste from green-lidded bins, which are for dry recyclables only. Although organic waste from the kitchen can be left in the brown-lidded bins, this does not extend to dead pets.

Domestic pets, such as cats, dogs and snakes, can be buried on the pet owner's property providing the dead pet will not prove hazardous to anyone who comes into contact with it. Advice can be sought from vets on this issue.

If you would rather not bury the animal yourself, there are pet cemeteries and pet crematoriums available which will dispose of your dead animal on your behalf. This can also be done through a vet.

The green-lidded bins should be used for dry recycling, such as paper, card, plastic, cans and foil.

The brown-lidded bins are for food waste: peelings, leftovers both cooked and uncooked, eggshells, teabags and food-stained paper and card such as pizza boxes and fish and chip paper should all be put in these.

Waste not suitable for recycling can be left in the black bins, which will be taken to landfill.

However, pets are suitable for neither recycling nor landfill, and should not be left out for collection.

A council spokesman said: "It's unusual for our recycling team to make a discovery this macabre, but the death of pets is inevitable and there may be some genuine confusion regarding how their bodies should be disposed of.

"If in doubt, I suggest pet owners contact their vet for advice."

For more comprehensive information on what should go in each bin, visit www.uttlesford.gov.uk/bins