Russian collector’s request for Angolan pythons raises wildlife trade concerns

Authorities and curators at the coast are highlighting the strict legal frameworks governing reptile ownership and international trade in Namibia. The issue has been brought to the fore following an inquiry received by the Living Desert Snake Park in Swakopmund from a private exotic animal collector in Moscow, Russia. The individual requested to purchase Angolan pythons for a private herpetological collection and potential captive breeding. Wildlife regulations in Namibia strictly control the capture, transport, and trade of indigenous and protected species. Under the Nature Conservation Ordinance and Cites regulations, species such as Anchieta’s dwarf python and the African rock python are specially protected. Privately trading, exporting, or commercializing protected indigenous reptiles without specialised permits and ministerial authorisation is strictly prohibited.

The post Russian collector’s request for Angolan pythons raises wildlife trade concerns appeared first on Future Media News.