Some of the world’s most dangerous wild animals are living at private addresses in Essex

18 Jul Some of the world’s most dangerous wild animals are living at private addresses in Essex

A survey conducted by the Born Free Foundation has revealed that 4,798 dangerous wild animals are being privately kept in Great Britain – 206 of which are living in Essex. Now the international wildlife charity is petitioning the UK Government to immediately review the law, and put a stop to some of the world’s most remarkable but often deadly creatures being in kept in unsuitable environments.

Whilst an estimated 11 million people own a pet in the UK, Born Free’s research asked every local council across England, Scotland and Wales which dangerous wild animals are currently licenced to be kept in private hands. In Essex, Castlepoint Borough Council, Tendring District Council, Basildon Council and Braintree District Council revealed that among the 206 dangerous wild animals that reside in the area, there are at least:

• 1 Savannah Cat

• 2 lizards including Bearded Lizards

• 4 Capuchin monkeys

• 32 snakes among them a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, 9 Eyelash Vipers and 5 Indochinese Spitting Cobras

• 167 Wild Boars

Currently, under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act of 1976, anyone in Britain can keep a dangerous wild animal as long as they obtain a licence from their local authority. The licence application merely requires them to demonstrate that their animals are properly contained and not at risk of escape.