This comes after Born Free revealed that more than 2,200 wild animals are currently licensed or in application for private ownership in Great Britain. This included more than 500 venomous snakes and 300 primates classed as dangerous.

 

The RSPCA believes that the existing Dangerous Wild Animals Act, introduced 50 years ago, is in urgent need of reform. In its current format, RSPCA says there is not enough emphasis on the welfare needs of them animals themselves.

 

The charity says that an ownership license does not necessarily mean that the animal is having its needs met.

 

Additionally, the RSPCA fears that primate licensing laws could see primates abandoned or kept in illegal conditions if owners are unable to meet new requirements. It believes a wider review of the Dangerous Wild Animals Act would ensure stronger protections for all dangerous wild animals kept by private individuals.

 

Evie Button, RSPCA exotic animals expert, said: “We’re 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.

 

“The RSPCA’s frontline experience shows the challenges that can arise when wild animals’ needs are not properly understood or met. We have also seen the serious welfare challenges faced by primates kept in domestic environments, with hundreds of reports of neglect and cruelty reports involving these highly intelligent and social animals over the last five years.”

 

Ms Button added: “Dangerous wild animals require environments and specialist care that cannot be replicated in most private homes. We want to see a future where these species are no longer kept in homes, but protected in environments that truly meet their needs.”