Pet snakes could go hungry because owners are struggling to find food for them.

John Regan, from Norwich, cares for 40 snakes but has not been able to feed one of his pets for weeks because of a rat shortage.

Mr Regan reported that in the 13 years he has looked after the reptiles he has never encountered a problem and fears for the health of his hungry corn snake, Carolina.

"There is a crisis for keepers of reptiles in Norwich. In the past there's always been an abundance of food. There must be many other reptile owners in the same position as me," he said to the Norwich Evening News.

Rats are fed to snakes and in the past have been readily available within the UK but lately snake keepers have had to order from European countries.

However, low stocks seem to have struck Europe due to vast orders from the US, explains Mr Regan.

"I'm really worried what I'm going to do," he added.

Corn snakes can live for over 30 years and grow up to six feet in length.