Thousands of Dangerous Wild Pets Hidden in UK Homes
A shocking new study from wildlife charity Born Free has revealed over 2,700 dangerous wild animals are living unnoticed in private UK homes. The charity warns urgent changes to the law are needed to protect both the public and these exotic creatures.
Exotic Menagerie Includes Venomous Snakes, Big Cats and More
The 2023 report uncovers a startling variety of wild pets, including:
- More than 200 wild cats
- 250 primates
- Over 400 venomous snakes — ten times more than in zoos
From bush vipers in Bedfordshire to cheetahs in Cheshire, caimans in Kent, and lynxes in Lincolnshire, dangerous animals are spread across the country.
Chichester Among Top UK Hotspots for Wild Pets
Chichester ranks fifth among local authorities with the highest number of dangerous wild animals. The wider Arun and Chichester areas house an incredible range including broad-snouted caimans, 120 wild boars, a Brazilian tapir, and multiple species of lemurs, revealing a hidden world of exotic wildlife in homes.
Born Free Demands Overhaul of Outdated Wild Animal Laws
Born Free’s investigation includes data from local councils and highlights serious gaps in monitoring and safety, thanks to the decades-old Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976. Some councils aren’t even fully aware of what species live in their areas – a terrifying thought given the risks.
“It is unbelievable that, in this day and age, so many dangerous animals continue to be legally kept in people’s homes in the UK,” said Dr Mark Jones, Head of Policy at Born Free.
“These animals pose risks not only through potential attacks but also the spread of zoonotic diseases. The current laws fail to protect both public safety and animal welfare.”
Born Free is calling on the government to tighten regulations, clamp down on exotic pet ownership, and phase out private keeping of wild animals that don’t belong in homes. This push aims to bring the UK’s animal welfare laws into the 21st century and match its environmental leadership goals.
For more details and to support the campaign, visit Born Free’s website and help create a safer future for people and wildlife alike.
