Warrandyte man fined $12,000 for reptile cruelty

A Warrandyte man has been fined $12,000 without conviction and had the number of animals he can own restricted for failing to provide sufficient care and veterinary treatment to reptiles in his possession.

The 37-year-old was sentenced in the Ringwood Magistrates’ Court this month, after he pleaded guilty to charges under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.

The offences included failing to provide water for 32 snakes and failing to seek veterinary treatment for three snakes and 13 lizards. He also administered carbon dioxide gas to two snakes and eight lizards without authorisation, resulting in their death.

In addition to the fine, the man was issued with a 10-year Control Order limiting the number of wildlife he may own.

Conservation Regulator Authorised Officers conducted several inspections of the man’s premises across a two-year period, where large numbers of reptiles were being kept in Melbourne’s outer eastern suburbs.

All wildlife in Victoria is protected under the Wildlife Act 1975.

The Conservation Regulator administers private wildlife licences under the Wildlife Act, which allow licence holders to keep wildlife as pets subject to a range of strict conditions.

Licence holders must ensure animals are properly fed, housed and cared for to support their health and welfare.

Anyone with information about wildlife crime is urged to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or make a report online. Reports can be made anonymously.

Quotes attributable to Manager Regulatory Operations Port Phillip, Andrew Johnstone:

“Wildlife licence conditions exist to protect animal welfare and must be taken seriously.”

“Anyone who keeps wildlife has a legal responsibility to provide proper care, including timely veterinary treatment if the animal is sick or injured.”

"People who keep reptiles must ensure each animal receives appropriate housing, care and attention, and should only keep as many animals as they can properly manage.”