A ZOO in China has admitted feeding live puppies to their giant hungry pythons.

The Hebin Park Zoo in Pingdingshan has tried to distance distanced itself from the controversy by claiming the practice was carried out by the reptile hall's private owners.

3 A snap shared on social media shows a live puppy curled up next to a huge python Credit: ASIA WIRE

The scandal was uncovered when shocking pictures and video began circulating on social media.

Footage shows a mongrel puppy inside what appeared to be a snake enclosure, next to a tray containing a juvenile Burmese python.

And pictures show another pup lying next to an adult golden-coloured Burmese python.

The huge snake also appeared to have three or four bulges along its body, suggesting it had recently been fed several of the young dogs.

3 The snake has several lumps in it, suggesting it has already feasted on pups Credit: ASIA WIRE

3 A video posted online shows a scared puppy in a snake enclosure Credit: ASIA WIRE

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Social media users have slammed the zoo since animal rights group PETA’s Asia office shared the disturbing photos online.

A spokeswoman for the Hebin Park Zoo said in a statement: "They did indeed feed puppies to the snakes.

"Our director has summoned them and asked them to stop."

She added: "Our reptile hall is privately managed.

"They have a contract with the park but their feeding activities have nothing to do with us."

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