Endangered species being kept as pets an increasing problem

The Virginia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is finding more and more “rescued” wild and endangered species being kept as pets.

Thea Smit, chairman of Virginia SPCA, says they are experiencing a huge problem with people keeping indigenous wildlife as pets.

“They never think of how it affects the animal and its survival,” she says.

Some of the 42 tortoises rescued by the Virginia SPCA. All have been relocated to a safe environment.Photo: Supplied

Recently the Virginia SPCA had the unfortunate experience of encountering a ‘rescued’ Sungazer (ouvolk).

Sungazers are a protected endangered species and their lifestyle is complex.

“Unfortunately, people interfere, which exposes the species and puts them at risk,” says Smit.

The rescued sungazer was found by people on a road.

Recently 42 tortoises were relocated to a safe environment by the Virginia SPCA. Photo: Supplied

“Although they had good intentions, one should never take a wild animal out of its habitat unless the animals are compromised. This goes for all indigenous wildlife.

“Leave them there and make sure our grandchildren and future generations will also be able to see them and know they are there and not extinct,” says Smit.

The female sungazer was taken in by the Johannesburg Wild Life Veterinary Hospital.

“People who keep indigenous lizards and wildlife as pets are part of a huge problem. Sungazers are unique to South Africa. They are threatened ground dwelling Lizards found only in South Africa. Both them and the grassland they live in are under serious threat,” she says.

Smit also cautions people who rescue tortoises from roads.

“Do you stop and load a tortoise in your car when they cross the road? They, too, are only crossing the road. If you really need to help them, do so gently across the road in the same direction they were walking.

“If you pick up a tortoise trying to survive in very dry conditions, it may excrete its valuable water supply, resulting in the eventual death of the animal. Please let them be,” she says.

The Virginia SPCA has relocated 49 tortoises to a safe environment where they will live a long, natural, deserving life.

“Keeping tortoises as pets is not only wrong, it is illegal, and we will report people keeping them without legal permits. You will be fined and end up with a criminal record. Keep them wild,” says Ernest Khakhau, inspector at Virginia SPCA.

Report incidents where indigenous wildlife are kept to the Virginia SPCA on emergency number 076-114-4788, or dial 079-776-1153 if you need assistance with snakes or wildlife.