Georgia DNR reminds pet owners to tag and register non-native reptiles

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding pet owners to tag and register their non-native reptiles before the deadline of December 3.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding pet owners to tag and register their non-native reptiles before the deadline of December 3.

Last year, the Georgia DNR added Nile monitors, African helmeted turtles, Chinese softshell turtles, Argentine black and white tegus, as well as Indian rock and Burmese pythons to the state’s wild animal list.

The animals were added to the list because they pose a threat to people or other wildlife.

Assistant Chief of Wildlife Conservation Brett Albanese says state wild animal rules were created to prevent invasive species from being released into the wild.

“We really want people to really be good stewards and responsible pet owners,” Albanese explained. “Never release your non-native species into the environment. People sometimes think that they’re doing the animal a favor, but they’re not.”

Albanese recommends scheduling an appointment with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Owning one of these animals after the deadline without having them registered will be considered a misdemeanor.

You can find more information about tagging reptiles by clicking here.