Watch: Anaconda, rabbits confiscated in Van Dyk Park
Twenty rabbits, which were bred for the sole purpose of feeding the anaconda, were confiscated
Inspectors from the Boksburg SPCA seized a four-metre-long yellow anaconda and 20 rabbits from a house in Van Dyk Park on November 4.
According to SPCA mananger Vicky Finnemore, the snake had been living in a filthy tank in a garden shed.
She said the tank was rarely cleaned and was soiled with what appeared to be months of faeces.
“The water was murky and filled with faecal matter from the snake. The owner initially cooperated with SPCA warnings but then slipped back into bad habits, resulting in the seizure of his animals,” Finnemore said.
The rabbits were kept in a small aviary outside where they were bred for the sole purpose of feeding the snake.
Metro police were called to assist when the owner became aggressive and physically obstructed SPCA inspectors in the execution of the warrant.
“The action of feeding live prey to a captive predator is illegal. The terror and stress smaller animals endure when placed in a reptile’s enclosure with no way of escape is cruel and unnecessary,” Finnemore said.
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She expressed her sincere gratitude to members of the EMPD for their assistance as well as other individuals who assisted with the handling of this “magnificent, prehistoric species”.
“All the animals are now safe and in the care of the Boksburg SPCA. The owner will be dealt with accordingly,” Finnemore said.
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