Queensland animal lovers will be able to adopt a range of native snakes and other wildlife in a new partnership between the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection and RSPCA Queensland.
Environment Minister Andrew Powell announced the trial program at the RSPCA stand at Brisbane’s Ekka today.
“This new arrangement will save many animals from an uncertain fate,” Mr Powell said.
“Every year our wildlife rangers are called on to help native birds and reptiles which, for a number of reasons cannot be released into the wild.
“It may be because we can’t identify the area from which they came or that they were born in captivity.
“Some animals are the innocent victims of illegal activity, others are surrendered by wildlife carers whose circumstances have changed and they simply can no longer look after them.
“Historically they were offered to zoos and wildlife parks but if they had no space there was no alternative but to euthanase them.”
RSPCA Queensland Director of Veterinary Services Kevin Bradley said carpet pythons, children’s pythons, bearded dragons and blue tongue lizards were among the animals looking for homes.
“Responsible pet ownership of a reptile is just as important as with other animals but with appropriate care and attention they are a relatively low maintenance pet,” Mr Bradley said.
“RSPCA Queensland will be giving advice on how to care for the animals and the simple ‘do’s and don’ts’ for individual species.”
Anyone wishing to adopt a native animal needs a Recreational Wildlife Licence, available online via the Environment and Heritage Protection website at www.ehp.qld.gov.au
The trial program will be reviewed at the end of the year.
