WIRES strongly opposes the keeping of native animals as pets. These animals belong in the wild where they can exhibit natural behaviours and live in habitats which are suited to their specific needs.
Wild For Life
Why Australian native animals
should not be kept as pets
- Home
- WIRES Advocacy
- Wild For Life
These species may naturally have large home ranges and travel long distances to find partners and food. Some of the species live in large groups with complex social structures or in close family groups, and it is not in the best interests of these animals to keep them alone, or in residential yards.
Many species have unique behaviours including gliding and burrowing which require space and specific surroundings to perform. Keeping animals like this in captivity, in confined spaces, strips them of the ability to live healthy lives.
Many native animals are also nocturnal and should be able to rest undisturbed during daylight hours.
WIRES is against any deregulation of the rules protecting native species from being kept as pets, as deregulation would expose more animals to significant welfare risks and the illegal wildlife trade.
Every year reptiles are caught from the wild then sold as captive bred, bred in horrific conditions and sent overseas to international buyers. Many of these animals suffer stress and disease, some die. SBS has reported that global illegal trade in wildlife is estimated to be worth $32 billion, with rare species in Australia at risk.
Sometimes captive bred reptiles are also no longer wanted as pets and are released illegally into the wild where they become a major biosecurity risk for wild populations, and may die being unable to fend for themselves.
To protect wildlife and genuinely ensure the long-term conservation of native species in the wild, we must protect their right to a wild life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you keep Australian native animals as pets?
Most native wildlife in Australia cannot legally be kept as pets without permits. These laws exist to protect animal welfare and native ecosystems.
Why shouldn't native animals be kept as pets?
Wild animals have complex dietary, behavioural, and environmental needs that cannot be met in domestic settings.
Are there moves to deregulate wildlife ownership in Australia?
In the past, some proposals have suggested loosening restrictions on keeping native species, which wildlife experts warn could increase illegal trade and animal suffering.