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Seven lizards caught wild from the bush were seized in a raid by DSE. A North Bendigo man is facing up to three years jail and $40,000 fine if proven guilty of the charges of possessing wildlife taken unlawfully and for keeping protected wildlife without a licence.
The reptiles were discovered in the man’s home when officers searched under warrant. There was no proof that the lizards were purchased from a licenced wildlife trader and he could not produce any licences for the lizards.
The reptiles were blue tongues, shingleback, sand goanna, central bearded dragon and a skink. Some of the lizards have been released back into the wild. Others, which are not native to central Victoria, are being cared for until a decision is made about their release.
The trade in wildlife smuggling and illegal possession is a constant problem in Australia as our wildlife is some of the most interesting and beautiful in the world.
Wildlife Licences
The types of licences required to keep or sell wildlife in Victoria are:
With each of these licences there are additional requirements for Licence Amendments & Record Keeping.
If you have any questions about import and export permits or permits to take and release wildlife, please contact the DSE Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or by email: customer.service@dse.vic.gov.au
Report unlawful or suspicious wildlife dealings to the DSE on 136 186 |
