Do you need a license to own a snake in the UK?

You must have a license to keep dangerous wild animals, this includes venomous snakes, venomous spider, monkeys, certain reptiles and spiders.

Do you need a license for a snake UK?

If you want to keep wild, dangerous or exotic animals such as spiders, marsupials or venomous snakes you will need to apply for a Dangerous Wild Animals Licence. This Licence does not apply to circuses, zoos or licenced pet shops.

Can you have a pet snake in the UK?

Exotic pets, otherwise known as non-traditional companion animals (NTCAs) are becoming increasingly common in the UK, with snakes being no exception. Research commissioned by UK Pet Food in 2023 found that around 1.4% of UK homes had a pet snake, approximately 700,000 animals.

What animals need a licence UK?

What reptiles are legal in the UK?

Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, all native British reptile species are legally protected. The killing, injury or sale of any species is an offence; however the taking of adders, grass snakes, common lizards or slow worms from the wild is permitted.

How do you get a licence to keep exotic pets? | ITV News

Do you need a licence to keep a snake?

You must have a license to keep dangerous wild animals, this includes venomous snakes, venomous spider, monkeys, certain reptiles and spiders. You can view the full list of dangerous wild animals ^{(PDF, 49kb)} here.

What snakes are illegal in UK?

There are however a number of snakes that it is illegal to own in the UK without a specially issued permit. According to the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976, those are: Atractaspididae Burrowing asps. Colubridae Certain rear-fanged venomous snakes, Montpellier snakes and African vine snakes.

Can you own an anaconda in the UK?

No licence is required to keep any of the species of anaconda. They are not listed in the Dangerous Wild Animals legislation because they have not been deemed to pose a threat to the public. How do I get a licence to keep viper snakes in the UK?

What pets can you legally own in UK?

The UK operates under a 'negative list' system, meaning that any animal can legally be owned without a licence unless there is a specific piece of legislation against this.

Can I own a penguin UK?

All species of penguin are protected so that you could only (legally) get a penguin from a zoo that had bred it. Penguins are social animals and live in large colonies.

What snakes can I own in the UK?

The three most commonly available and beginner friendly pet snakes in the UK, are the corn snake, the milk snake, and the ball python.

Can I have a pet snake?

Are snakes legal to keep as a pet? In most places, reptiles are legal. However, some states and localities may have restrictions or bans on certain reptile breeds. This can include where and how you adopt.

What is the easiest snake to own?

Garter Snake – Garter Snakes are small, active, and easy to care for. They come in a variety of colors and patterns and are a great option for beginner snake owners. Garter Snakes can live up to 10 years in captivity.

How do I get a reptile license UK?

You must apply to your local authority (either district council or London borough) for a licence and state the species of animal you'd like to keep. The application form also asks for the number of animals you intend to have and the address at which they will be kept.

Can you get snakes in your garden UK?

Many people are delighted to spot a snake in their garden - it's a rare wildlife treat. We recognise that it can be alarming for some, however. Please be assured that there is no reason to worry. The vast majority of snakes that turn up in gardens are entirely harmless to people and pets.

Can I take my snake out in public UK?

In general, as long as you're not calling a venomous snake a “pet” … It's as safe as interacting with a dog.

What 4 dogs are not allowed in the UK?

Is it illegal to say no pets UK?

What does the tenancy agreement say? The tenancy agreement (contract) might say pets aren't allowed. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 prohibits “unfair terms” in a contract. This means a blanket ban on keeping pets in a tenancy agreement might be struck out if challenged in court.

What is the most exotic pet you can own UK?

Can I own a king cobra UK?

If you want to keep a true cobra - a member of genus Naja, or the king cobra, Ophiphagus hannah - in the UK, then you will have to apply to your local council for a Dangerous Wild Animals licence for the specific species you want to keep (you can't just list “a cobra” or even the genus “Naja” - you've got to name the ...

Can I own a Capybara UK?

Is it legal to keep a capybara? It is not against the law to own a capybara in the UK, but in order to do so, you must have a licence for your pet that is issued by your local council.

Can you own a giraffe in the UK?

Giraffes also need licencing for keeping in the UK. This is considerably more expensive than your TV licence as extremely high and robust fencing is required to keep them from straying. Another condition of a licence would be that a suitable building is needed.

What are the 4 snakes in UK?

Do UK snakes bite?

British snakes are usually solitary, shy animals that prefer to flee than fight. Adders are mainly found on heathlands, commons and woodland. More bites occur in the summer as British snakes hibernate through winter, when people are also less active and wearing heavier clothing and footwear.

Are any UK snakes poisonous?

Types of UK snake

The adder is the only poisonous (venomous) snake, but you should get all snake bites checked as soon as possible. Telling the doctors the colour and pattern of the snake that bit you could help them treat it. Adders are grey or reddish-brown, with a dark zig-zag shaped stripe down their back.