SPCA rescues chameleon being sold on the side of the road
The man reportedly tried to sell the chameleon, kept inside a jar, on North Rand Road.
After recently rescuing a chameleon from being sold on the side of the road, Boksburg SPCA encourages the community to report illicit trade of wildlife.
According to SPCA secretary Sue Beadon, the society on November 28 responded to a complaint from a member of the public regarding the sale of a chameleon on North Rand Road.
A field officer located the seller, who had the small green reptile in a plastic jar.
“The animal was for sale at R300 but was rescued and taken to the Boksburg SPCA,” said Sue, adding they educated the seller about laws regarding the sale of wild animals.
“We explained to him it was illegal for him to sell the chameleon and that he could get a fine or jail time. The man handed over the animal to the society.”
The flap-necked chameleon was sent to the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Clinic to be assessed and rehabilitated before being released back into its natural habitat.
The SPCA urges the public to report the illegal trade of wild animals to them rather than supporting it.
“Buying the animals encourages the seller to continue trading in them. Purchasing and keeping indigenous wild animals in captivity is cruel and illegal.”
To support the SPCA in their mission to assist animals, contact 083 763 6311.
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