ZOO DUN NIT
Exotic animal review reveals one mystery pet lover’s menagerie has 2 alligators, 3 crocs and 2 snakes
A MYSTERY Scot is keeping an incredible group of exotic animals – including alligators, crocodiles and snakes.
The Lanarkshire-based collector’s menagerie has two American alligators, a Nile crocodile, two dwarf caimans, two African dwarf crocs, a western diamondback rattlesnake and a Gaboon viper.
In response to a freedom of information request, North Lanarkshire Council revealed they had issued a single valid Dangerous Animals licence.
According to the Born Free Foundation, there are about 500 dangerous wild animals being kept by private individuals in Scotland. Across the UK, the total is almost 5000.
The animal welfare charity fear that a large number are pets and have lobbied the UK Government for a review of the relevant laws, running a petition with more than 10,000 names.
Dr Chris Draper, of the Born Free Foundation, said: “We are grateful to our supporters for their outpouring of support. We are greatly concerned that the current legislation protects neither wild animals or people sufficiently.”
The Government insist legislation on the welfare needs of wild animals kept by people, and the licensing of sales, has been reviewed and tightened.
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