A python found dead by children at a riverbank could have been killed by a swan, vets said.

The snake, which is around 1m in length, was found by the youngsters as they were playing near the River Tyne in Haddington, East Lothian, on Wednesday.

It was taken to the Animals 1st vet practice in the town where it is being kept in the hopes its owner might be traced.

Staff at the surgery believe it may belong to a local woman.

"The local petshop owner told us a lady came in last week to buy food, hoping to entice her lost snake back into its tank," said a spokeswoman.

"It seems like the python might have escaped from her house and made its way down to the river."

The spokeswoman said the reptile's injuries are consistent with being pecked by a large bird.

A pair of swans are known to nest close to where the python was found near Riverside Drive.

Anyone who knows the animal's owner is asked to contact the surgery on 01620 825 574.