Dangerous wild animal licensing

The keeping of certain species of wild animals is controlled by the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976. 

Dangerous wild animals include venomous snakes, certain spiders, certain monkeys and even ostriches. The full schedule of Kinds of Dangerous wild animals are listed in the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 (Modification)(No 2) order 2007. 

Certain general conditions must be met as a requirement for the license.  If you fail to have a license, the animal can be removed from your premises.  Dangerous Wild Animal Licenses are not needed for animals kept in zoos, circuses, pet shops and places registered under the Cruelty to Animals Act of 1876 for the purpose of performing as specific licenses are issued for these activities. 

No person may keep any dangerous wild animal without first obtaining a license from their local authority. Wirral Council can issue licenses for a period of 2 years.

Before a license is issued a veterinary surgeon will want to visit the premises and assess the animal to ensure that certain conditions are met. You will be charged for this visit.