With the internet’s increased exposure to the outside world, more South Africans are considering having animals other than the traditional concept of ‘pets.’
Exotic pets, as they have been known, are pets that are not indigenous to a specific country, are frequently ‘strange,’ and are usually found in the wild.
Animals like snakes, parrots, monkeys, iguanas, and others are becoming popular as pets in the country.
The exotic pet trade is a multibillion-dollar industry on a global scale. In terms of revenue, the Humane Society of the United States rates it second only to the drug and arms trades.
The majority of it occurs underground and illegally, with the majority of the pets being taken from their natural habitat rather than being reared in captivity.
Many of the animals end up in the hands of rich individuals or in circuses that entertain paying guests.
Is it legal in South Africa to trade exotic pets?
South Africa has legislation that allows the trade of exotic pets while assuring their safety and environmental impact.
The National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004 (NEMBA) defines an alien species (exotic animal) as “a species that is not a South African indigenous species.” An indigenous species is defined as “a species that occurs or has historically existed naturally in a free condition within the limits of the Republic, but excludes species imported into the Republic as a result of human activity.”
Can you keep a tiger as a pet in South Africa?
In South Africa, you can have a pet tiger or lion. Some provinces and localities may require a special permit to do so.
Is it allowed to own exotic pets in South Africa?
Certain jurisdictions require permits to keep exotic animals as pets. Conservation issues are mostly addressed by several provincial legislation and regulations. No permit is necessary for the lawful possession or keeping of an exotic wild animal in Gauteng, North West, Mpumalanga, or Limpopo.
What are the legal exotic animals in South Africa?
Most of the country allows you to own a parrot without a permit. Even in locations where licenses for such exotic pets are required, there is little to no enforcement. Iguanas, geckos, chinchillas, African grey parrots, and non-venomous snakes are the top five most popular exotic pets in South Africa.
