A spectacled caiman, a species of crocodile classified as a dangerous wild animal under the Dangerous Wild Animal Act 1976, has been removed from a semi-detached house in Hale.
Trafford Council’s environmental health team led the execution of a warrant with Greater Manchester Police and the RSPCA after reports that the spectacled caiman was being kept without a Dangerous Wild Animal Licence.
A python was also taken for assessment by police under the Animal Welfare Act.
The animal, called Lyle, was found in an enclosure with water. Together with the snake, it was taken into the care of a local vet that specialises in reptiles and was today being transferred to a suitable zoo.
RSPCA officers were on hand to advise during the operation. Caimans have sharp teeth and strong jaws and carry a biting risk. They can grow to more than two metres in length and are native to much of Latin America.
Cllr Keleigh Glenton, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Community Safety and Civil Contingencies, said:
“The Council works hard to protect our neighbourhoods from a wide range of potential problems and safety threats.
“Thanks to the work of our environmental health team and partners, the caiman has been carefully removed. Species like this require sensitive, expert handling and proper environments and as such we require any owner to hold a Dangerous Wild Animal Licence. We do not hesitate to take decisive action when rules are not adhered to.”
Police Sergeant DeGouveia, GMP’s Wildlife Subject Matter Expert, said:
“This an excellent example of partnership working between GMP, the RSPCA and Trafford Council.
“The swift and coordinated response from all agencies involved ensured that the animals were safely secured, removed and can now look forward to a brighter future in more suitable accommodation.
“I would like to thank the Altrincham Neighbourhood Team, RSPCA and Trafford Council for their support, professionalism and commitment. There efforts have made a significant difference to the welfare and future of the animals involved.”
RSPCA Exotic Animals Expert Evie Button said:
“We’re pleased that both reptiles are now receiving specialist care but we remain deeply concerned that so many dangerous wild animals continue to be kept in private hands across Britain.
“These animals have highly specialised physical, behavioural and environmental needs that are incredibly difficult to meet in a domestic setting, meaning their welfare can be severely compromised when they are kept as pets.”