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Alligator alarm in Vechta: Unknown reptile causes excitement!
In Vechta, an alligator was discovered that had been illegally released into a pond. The city administration is examining fishing measures.
Alligator alarm in Vechta: Unknown reptile causes excitement!
An unusual incident is causing a stir in Vechta. An alligator approximately 80 centimeters long was illegally released into a pond. According to a spokesman for the city administration, the animal is in the rain retention basin on Schweriner Strasse and is classified as a young animal. The incident came to light when police were alerted by a private cell phone video showing the reptile. Consequently, the pond was immediately closed off to avoid possible dangers. Despite a double inspection of the approximately 2.5 hectare site on Saturday with a drone, the alligator initially remained untraceable.
The city administration has now taken the initiative to catch the animal using a live trap. If this is not successful, the rainwater could be drained from the retention basin. However, a city spokesman assured that the reptile poses no danger to people or pets, which apparently reassures many Vechta residents.
Illegal animal husbandry in the district
This case also highlights the problem of illegal animal husbandry in the Vechta district. According to a statement from the Weser-Ems district government, around 80 percent of the animal husbandry businesses inspected do not have sufficient permits. This particularly affects farms with more than 700 pigs, which require additional permission under the Federal Immission Control Act. Many farmers have failed to apply for these permits, which could lead to possible farm closures.
The daily inspection of two companies in Vechta is only a small step, according to the district government, especially since the investigations can last up to six years. This shows that there are similar, significant permit deficits not only in Vechta, but also in other districts.
Legal framework
In order to ensure that reptiles are kept in a species-appropriate manner, the animal protection law in Germany requires that animals be fed, cared for and housed in a species-appropriate manner. Before purchasing a reptile, knowledge of the biology and specific husbandry requirements is essential. Necessary precautions, such as a prepared terrarium and observing temperature gradients, are crucial for the well-being of these cold-blooded animals. This information comes from a report by the expert group that defines the minimum requirements for keeping reptiles.
The incident in Vechta makes it clear that the problems of illegal animal husbandry apply not only to reptiles, but to a large number of animals. It remains to be seen how the city administration and the district government will deal with these challenges.