Man fined for illegally keeping three pythons

A Halls Creek man has been fined $800 after illegally keeping three snakes in his home without a proper licence.

David Anthony Foriglio was charged under the Wildlife Conservation Regulations in November last year after three black-headed pythons were found in captivity in his home.

Department of Environment and Conservation district wildlife officer Len Terry said the animals were seized but could not be returned to the wild due to the risk of introducing diseases into the wild population.

“A health check of the pythons found them to be in good condition, so they will be placed in suitable facilities under licence,” he said.

“Wild reptiles cannot be removed from their natural habitat except under special licence.

“Too many animals are being removed from their natural habitat.

“DEC takes the unlawful possession of protected reptiles and reptile trafficking very seriously, and investigates any such

instances vigorously.”

Anyone who has information about the illegal removal of reptiles or notices any suspicious activity suggesting that reptiles are being illegally moved should call DEC’s Wildcare hotline 9474 9055.