The number of exotic pets found dumped on the streets of London is on the rise, according to the RSPCA.

It comes after inspectors found two bearded dragons dumped on the steps of a block of flats in Lettsome Street, Camberwell, on April 27.

The reptiles were so cold and lifeless the inspector thought they had already died, but after being carefully warmed up and fed a meal their lives were saved.

Last year the charity received 434 calls to abandoned bearded dragons, which is a 27 per cent increase from the previous year.

The charity collected 1,853 reptiles in total, recording a seven per cent increase from 2013.

RSPCA inspector and exotics officer Anthony Pulfer urged people to do their research before deciding to purchase an exotic animal.

He said: “Exotic pets, particularly reptiles such as bearded dragons, appear to be increasing in popularity and the number of related incidents dealt with by the RSPCA has risen in recent years.

“The RSPCA is experiencing widespread neglect of exotic animals across the country.  For many people an exotic animal represents too much of a commitment which is manifested in the growing number of exotic animals being abandoned and handed to shelters around the country.

“Exotic pets are commonly found in pet shops nowadays too, however it is sadly often the case that they are handed over to buyers with very little to no information about how to care for them or the commitment that is involved in keeping them happy and healthy.

"Bearded dragons can live for up to 12 years in captivity - which a lot of people don’t realise.”