It's illegal to release a nonnative animal into the wild in Florida, and it could be detrimental for the animal and the environment.  In an effort to keep unwanted exotic pets out of Florida's native habitats, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the Miami MetroZoo will host the fifth Nonnative Pet Amnesty Day in March in Miami.

 

"We are expecting to get quite a few nonnative animals that day, so we need to make sure we have safe homes for them," said Jenny Tinnell of the FWC. "Released pets are a common pathway that allows exotic species into the wild.  Often, pet owners don't understand the difference between native and nonnative species, or they don't realize the possible effects releasing a nonnative species can have. This event gives pet owners who can no longer take care of their pets or no longer wish to keep them a legal, ethical option."

 

Currently, the FWC is looking for potential adopters in South Florida who are experienced pet owners and are willing to provide a home for one or two more animals. All adopters must fill out the proper application form before they receive surrendered animals. 

 

"This isn't a free pet giveaway," Tinnell said.  "We're looking for adopters with knowledge and expertise in caring for exotic pets, not people who have always wanted a pet and think this is an opportunity to try their hand at owning one they don't have to purchase."

 

Pet Amnesty Day will be March 21 at the Miami MetroZoo. It's free and open to the public. Exotic animals can be surrendered to the FWC free of charge with no questions asked and no penalties.

"We will not be penalizing any pet owners who choose the responsible option of not releasing their nonnative pets into the wild.  This is about curbing our ongoing problem of exotic fish and wildlife," Tinnell said. 

 

A veterinarian will examine each animal, and every attempt will be made to place all healthy animals with qualified adopters.  Amnesty Day is also a family event;  there will be live animals on display, live animal shows and fun activities.  Experts will be on hand to talk to about proper care of exotic pets, so people who are thinking about purchasing one can learn from credible sources before they buy.  This is a chance for people to not only see exotic animals, but get up close and even touch them.

 

Nonnative pet amnesty events help to increase awareness of nonnative species prob­lems.  Over 400 nonnative species have been observed in Florida, and more than 130 have reproducing populations.

For more information on nonnative species in Florida, visit MyFWC.com/nonnatives/.

 

Anyone interested in adopting nonnative pets should download the proper adoption application and animal care sheets at MyFWC.com and click on "Be a nonnative pet adopter." Adopters must have knowledge of natural history and caging requirements and have proper facilities for the animals they are interested in adopting.  There is no fee for being an adopter.    

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