Experts of the Regional Inspectorate for Environment and Waters – Sofia conducted a joint inspection with representatives of the municipality “Vrazhdebna” after receiving reports of snakes being kept on private property.
During the on-site inspection, two specimens of the royal python (Python regius) and one specimen of the common mouse snake (Elaphe longissima) were found.
The royal python is a species included in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES), and the common mouse snake is a protected species under the Biological Diversity Act (BDA), and its keeping at home is prohibited.
It was established that the animals were not registered and did not have the necessary documents of origin. On the basis of the Law on Administrative Violations and Punishments and in connection with the BDA, the specimens were confiscated and, by order of the director of the Regional Inspectorate for Environmental Protection – Sofia, they were placed in a rescue center “Zoo – Sofia“.
Administrative and penal measures have been taken against the owner of the animals.
The Regional Inspectorate for Environmental Protection – Sofia reminds that breeding protected species without the necessary permits is a violation of the law and can lead to serious sanctions.