Southern Florida Offers Amnesty for Exotic Pet Owners

Officials offer amnesty for exotic pets Saturday

Faced with growing reports of exotic snakes and reptiles roaming the wilds of Florida and competing with native animals, state wildlife officials have made it easier for exotic pet owners to give up pets they no longer want.

The pet friendly Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will conduct one of its "pet amnesty days" on Saturday at the Jacksonville Zoo.

The commission hopes to stem the number of animals being "set free" to roam.

Even though it's illegal to turn exotic animals loose, boa constrictors, monitor lizards and the like are often reported. More than 130 species have established reproducing populations in the state.

Owners can surrender the exotic pets for free, with no questions asked. According to a commission news release, the animals will be examined by a licensed veterinarian, and, if they're healthy, the state will try to place them with qualified owners.

The amnesty day, Florida's fourth, is scheduled for 10 a.m. till 2 p.m. at 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville. Exotic reptiles, amphibians, birds, fish and mammals will be accepted. Domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and rabbits, will not.

For more information, visit MyFWC.com/nonnatives/.
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