A MAN has sparked fear after claiming his giant pet snake is on the loose in Glasgow.

Facebook user James McGinty posted jaw-dropping images of a massive Burmese python on the social media site last night.

He wrote: “Lost in the Glasgow area. It is friendly but do not approach.”

“Please message if found. Small children and pets should be distanced from it,” he added.

Naturally, some users of the site were quick to express their alarm. One said: “What the actual f***? I don’t live in Glasgow and I’m terrified.”

Another hit out: “Shame on you. That poor animal will probably be found dead. What a t***.”

“How the heck you lost him is unbelievable,” was another comment.

“I am going to shut all the windows and put the alarm on,” said one.

However, other users laughed it off as a prank.

One said: “Definitely a joke.”

Another posted a screenshot of what looks like the same Facebook user last month trying to sell an invisibility cloak for £250.

She wrote: “It’s a hoax lol last post he was selling an invisibility cloak.”

Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said: “Snakes are excellent escape artists so it is important owners ensure their vivariums are completely secure. 

"If a vivarium doesn't already have a lock on it, we would recommend having one fitted.

“Quite often they will have escaped from a neighbour’s house and not travelled too far.

"Snakes need heat and can't survive for long outside in the cold. However, it is possible a snake would manage to survive for a long time inside a wall cavity, provided it is able to feed and there is a source of heat."

"Anyone who comes across this snake can contact our Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999."