A Leicester local got a surprise, to say the least, when they saw the snake slithering in their home (Picture: Jam Press/RSPCA)

A missing foot-long snake was found slithering around in a Leicester flat – and had to be caught using a pillowcase.

The kingsnake, often known for its colourful stripes and docile nature, was found in Fosse Road North in the Newfoundpool neighbourhood on Saturday evening.

The terrified tenant, realising that the snake had snuck into their home, phoned the animal welfare charity RSCPA which told them to use the bed linen to nab the reptile.

RSCPA workers collected the kingsnake, native to the US and Mexico, and are now searching for its owner.

If the non-venomous snake’s owner doesn’t come forward, it’ll be rehomed instead, the RSCPA added.

Kingsnakes are nothing to worry about – they don’t attack their prey with venomous fangs and instead wrap around them.

But to a kingsnake, humans are slightly too big for them to effectively do this even as they can grow up to 1.52 metres tall.

An RSPCA spokesperson said: ‘Another reason more snakes escape in the summer is that some owners take them outside to take advantage of the natural sunlight.

‘While sunlight is good for reptiles, the RSPCA urges owners to ensure that their pet is kept secure when doing so, as they can warm up and move very quickly on a sunny day.’

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It was a surprise visit, to say the least.