The caiman has been sent to a specialist zoo, along with a python found at the same address
Council, police and RSPCA worked together to seize caiman in Hale
A crocodile has been seized from a property in Hale after the police and RSPCA received reports that a wild animal was being kept without a licence.
The council, police and RSPCA worked together after a caiman had to be removed from a semi-detached house in Hale. The species of crocodile is classified as a dangerous wild animal under the Dangerous Wild Animal Act 1976.
An environmental health team from Trafford Council led the execution of a warrant alongside Greater Manchester Police and the RSPCA at 11am yesterday (September 16), after they received reports that the caiman was being kept with the correct licence.
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At the same address, a python was also taken for assessment by police under the Animal Welfare Act. The caiman, known as Lyle, was found inside in an enclosure with water.
Along with the snake, both were taken into the care of a local vet that specialises in reptiles and today they were in the process of being transferred to a suitable zoo.
RSPCA officers were on hand to advise during the operation, as they have sharp teeth and strong jaws and carry a biting risk. They can grow to more than two metres in length and are native to much of Latin America.
Cllr Keleigh Glenton, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Community Safety and Civil Contingencies, said: “The Council works hard to protect our neighbourhoods from a wide range of potential problems and safety threats.
“Thanks to the work of our environmental health team and partners, the caiman has been carefully removed. Species like this require sensitive, expert handling and proper environments and as such we require any owner to hold a Dangerous Wild Animal Licence. We do not hesitate to take decisive action when rules are not adhered to.”
Police Sergeant DeGouveia, GMP’s Wildlife Subject Matter Expert, added: “This an excellent example of partnership working between GMP, the RSPCA and Trafford Council.
“The swift and coordinated response from all agencies involved ensured that the animals were safely secured, removed and can now look forward to a brighter future in more suitable accommodation.
“I would like to thank the Altrincham Neighbourhood Team, RSPCA and Trafford Council for their support, professionalism and commitment. Their efforts have made a significant difference to the welfare and future of the animals involved.”
With both animals now receiving specialist care, RSPCA Exotic Animals Expert Evie Button urged: “We’re pleased that both reptiles are now receiving specialist care but we remain deeply concerned that so many dangerous wild animals continue to be kept in private hands across Britain.
“These animals have highly specialised physical, behavioural and environmental needs that are incredibly difficult to meet in a domestic setting, meaning their welfare can be severely compromised when they are kept as pets.”
