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Snakes capable of crushing small animals have been spotted up trees, rooftops and climbing houses in north London.

The Aesculupian snakes, which can grow up to two metres in length, were seen feasting on rats and birds on the banks of Regent’s Canal.

It is believed the snakes have been living in the area since the 90s after it was rumoured they were released as part of a scientific experiment, and sightings have increased in recent months.

But the species, thought to have originated from Yugoslavia, is now under threat after government quango the London Invasive Species Initative (LISI) has called for a cull of the snakes.

The body claims the snakes could cause a negative impact on the eco-system and placed them in the highest-priority group.

LISI manager, Karen Harper, told the Camden New Journal: “Aesculapian snakes species is listed in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 meaning it is illegal to allow the species to spread or escape into the wild.

“At present there is limited information on what affects the species may have on our local ecosystems.”

Ecologists have criticised the plans, claiming the colony of snakes should be ‘preserved.’