Research from Born Free has revealed in East and West Sussex is home to more than 120 dangerous and wild animals.
The charity's most recent survey from 2020 shows there are 3,951 dangerous wild animals licensed to be kept privately in Great Britain, with potentially many more being kept without a licence.
In that total, there are 210 private addresses across 129 local authorities with licenses to keep dangerous wild animals such as lions, tigers, crocodilians, and venomous reptiles.
Under current rules, there are no restrictions for keeping most wild animal species as pets in the UK.
Ma Juah was rescued from a desolate concrete pit in a private zoo back in 2004. We then brought her to a new home at Shamwari, where she gained a lifelong BFF, Achee! They were inseparable!
— Born Free Foundation (@BornFreeFDN) June 28, 2022
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If they are considered potentially dangerous, a Dangerous Wild Animal licence is required from the relevant Local Authority.
Born Free says there are numerous species, many would consider dangerous, not listed under the 1976 act including Komodo dragons and large constrictor snakes.
The foundation has created an interactive map, making it easier to see where these wild and potentially dangerous animals are kept.
The website can be used to search for the animals kept across the UK and is broken down by counties and local authorities.
Wild animals being kept in East and West Sussex
East Sussex
Brighton & Hove City Council
Diamond Back Rattlesnake: 1
Wealden District Council
Serval: 1
Ring Tailed Lemur: 4
West Sussex
Chichester District Council
Boar: 90
Red Panda: 1
Tapir: 1
Lemur: 17
Horsham District Council
Ostrich: 7
Ruffed Lemur: 2
Born Free has called on the UK government to undertake a comprehensive review of exotic pet ownership which includes the existing dangerous wild animal legislation.
There are multiple ways you can get involved in the campaign, including by writing to your MP and donating directly to the charity.
Find out more via the Born Free website.
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