Finding a snake, tarantula or iguana in a public space isn’t something most people expect on an ordinary day out. But Arona is putting a specialist service in place to deal with exactly that situation.
The council has teamed up with the Neotropic Foundation to capture and rescue exotic animals that have escaped or been abandoned, ensuring they are transported safely to suitable facilities.
The service will cover searching for, capturing and collecting the animals, as well as arranging their care while decisions are made about where they should go next.
The foundation will also help identify species and assess potential risks, particularly when animals could pose a danger to people or other wildlife.
It’s not just about dealing with the occasional unexpected visitor, either. The initiative includes training for local police, civil protection teams and municipal staff, giving them guidance on recognising and handling exotic animals safely without putting themselves or the animals at risk.
Schools will also be involved, with activities aimed at younger children explaining the problems caused by releasing invasive exotic species into the environment and abandoning unusual pets.
Environmental councillor Clari Pérez has urged residents not to try catching these animals themselves. Without the right knowledge and equipment, a well-intentioned rescue attempt could quickly go wrong.
If you spot a snake, tarantula, iguana or another unusual exotic animal in a public area, leave it alone and report it to the appropriate authorities so trained specialists can deal with it.
Exotic pets can be fascinating, but when they escape or are abandoned, they can create problems for both people and local wildlife. Getting the right help is the safest option for everyone involved.