Mumbai, May 29 (IANS) For the first time in its 150-year history, the Mumbai zoo has recorded a daring theft -- a live Red Sand Boa snake, which some wrongly believe can lead to hidden treasures.

According to a zoo official, the theft of the non-poisonous, two-feet long snake was noticed Saturday when its enclosure was opened to feed it.

"The lock of the cage was broken and the Red Sand Boa was missing. It clearly appears to be a case of theft," zoo director Anil Anjankar told IANS Sunday.

A complaint has been lodged with police.

Anjankar said this was the first instance of theft in the zoo since it was founded 150 years ago.

"We have 10 snakes among 600 other animals in the zoo. The snakes include five large pythons and two cobras but they were not disturbed," he said.

Wildlife experts say the commonly found Red Sand Boa is coveted by many in the belief that it can lead to hidden treasures.

"This is humbug with no basis whatsoever," said Thane-based expert Ashwin M.A.

The Mumbai zoo, among the oldest in the country, is spread over 53 acres of lush greenery in the heart of south Mumbai.