You'll need a licence if you want to keep an animal considered to be wild, dangerous or exotic.

This is to make sure that people who keep dangerous wild animals don't cause any risks to the public and safeguard the welfare of the animals.

There are many types of animals referred to as a dangerous wild animal, for example:

• crocodiles
• wild cats
• wolves
• ostriches
• many poisonous snakes
• certain pigs such as wild boar

Hybrid or cross-bred animals may need a licence, depending on how far removed the animal is from its wild ancestor.

If you are unsure if your animal is classed as a dangerous wild animal then please contact us to see the full list of animals you need a licence for

Zoos and pet shops need a different form of licence.

We have the power to seize any dangerous wild animal being kept on unlicensed premises.