Rock Python set free
A Rock Python was safely set free in the Pretoria Zoo Nature Reserve last Friday after the South African Reptile Rescue Unit (SARRU) followed up on a lead that a resident from Mokopane had plans to illegally sell it.
MOKOPANE – In a media statement SARRU said they followed a tip and phoned the anonymous resident under the pretence that they are interested in buying the snake.
“He wanted R1 500 for the snake and when we asked if he had a Threatened or Protected Species (ToPS) permit to legally keep the snake in his possession and if he had a wildlife traders permit to legally sell the snake, the answer was no.
“We then identified ourselves and notified him that it is illegal to keep or sell South African snakes in Limpopo without permits.”
The South African Reptile Rescue Unit said by law a person can be given a hefty fine of up to R250 000 or face 15 years’ imprisonment when dealing with exotic animals or when keeping them without the legal permit.
Mark Howard, Head of Mokopane Biodiversity Conservation Centre sent Edwin Kenosi (Nature Conservationists) to confiscate the snake and last Friday it was set free.
redaksie.bosvelder@nmgroup.co.za
