101 illegally kept wildlife specimens seized in Singapore, 13 found dead

SINGAPORE: Singapore has seized 101 illegally kept wildlife specimens, 13 of which were found dead and many others in poor health, and is investigating six people for suspected illegal sale and possession of wildlife, the National Parks Board (NParks) said on Wednesday.

This has been one of NParks' largest seizures of illegally kept wildlife in recent years, it said, reported Xinhua.

The animals were seized during raids on residential premises on Monday and included lizards, newts, pythons, tarantulas and turtles.

All were non-native species that cannot legally be sold, offered for sale or kept as pets in Singapore. Some are also protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.

Many of the surviving animals were found in poor health, NParks said. One leopard gecko was found with a ruptured and infected eye and was unable to shed its skin fully.

Such conditions were "highly indicative of a long period of time captive under poor conditions," NParks said. One leopard gecko had to be euthanised on animal welfare grounds.

The 13 specimens found dead at the premises may have died because of conditions including insufficient space, poor ventilation and inadequate access to food and water, the agency said.

The remaining wildlife have been moved to NParks' Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation, where they are being housed and cared for.

As the animals came from unknown sources and may carry infectious diseases, they will undergo a period of quarantine. NParks will then assess whether they are suitable for repatriation or donation to animal establishments such as zoos.

Euthanasia will be considered as a last resort, the agency said.