It is all to easy to forget that reptiles are wild animals, and that many species that we keep in captivity are endangered or threatened in the wild. Some of these, such as certain species of European tortoise, are threatened directly because of us.

 

The pet trade takes millions of animals out of the wild every year, of which many die during transportation, or in the first year of their life in captivity. In addition to this, increasing development reduces the habitat of animals, and increasing polution levels and problems such as contaminated water supplies are causing some species in the wild population to decline quicker than they can reproduce.

 

Please remember to treat your animals with the respect they deserve. Try to purchase animals that are captive bred and not those taken from the wild, where available.

 

Cardiff Reptile Association would like to offer their support to PARC - Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, a USA based organisation attempting to raise awareness, and turn the clocks around, bringing back to life declining populations.

 

Joining PARC is completely free, and we strongly recommend that you help support organisations such as this.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The UK itself also has a small population of native reptiles, some of which are endangered. There are 6 species of reptile, 3 snakes and 3 lizards that include

 

The ARG UK (Amphibian and Reptile Group UK) is a network of wildlife volunteer  groups which aim to protect & conserve the native amphibians & reptiles of the UK. Please keep an eye out on their website for news, events, and ways in which you can take part in conserving todays wildlife.