A spectacled caiman, an alligator-like reptile, was discovered living in a Toronto residence for over a decade, violating city bylaws. The owner, unaware of the legal ramifications, voluntarily surrendered the animal. Toronto Animal Services relocated the caiman to the Indian River Reptile Zoo to ensure its well-being. Although the owner faced a $240 fine, it was waived due to their lack of knowledge of the bylaw, emphasizing the need for pet owners to research regulations regarding exotic animals before adopting them.
This case highlights the importance of knowing which animals aren't allowed in Toronto and to fully research the needs of any pet prior to bringing one into your home.
The owner agreed to hand over the animal voluntarily and it was relocated to the Indian River Reptile Zoo, a non-profit zoo located east of Peterborough.
Toronto Animal Services says it was alerted in December about a spectacled caiman, a reptile that's part of the same animal family as alligators and crocodiles, at a home in the city.
The fine for having a prohibited animal is $240, but the city agreed to waive the fine for this owner because they had no prior knowledge of the bylaw.
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