Bearded dragon legality

[Herald_23]

Before I started the hobby of reptile keeping, I did my research on some great reptile pets. I found an interest in Bearded dragons so I decided to have a look for keepers. I was later informed that it is illegal to keep Beardies in the Eastern Cape. I would like to know why and if it's only the Eastern Cape or all cape provinces.

[kfc223]

Its also illegal in the western cape.

[Scavenger]

I'm not sure on the exact reasons but the Nature Conservation authorities have black listed them in both those provinces. I feel it may be because that area of SA has a high endemism of species that could potentially be at risk if beardies were to become invasive although very unlikely . The other provinces you do not need permits to keep them.

[Herald_23]

Thanks Scavenger. I thought along those lines but just needed it cleared up. It's a bit disappointing seeing people selling Beardies out of EC and WC and we can't get to them

[TonyK]

Legal or not they are with out a doubt the most popular pet lizard in the Western Cape.

[Herald_23]

Keeping reptiles illegally under the covers is bad if the keeper is inexperienced. Should the reptile escape or be released (Americans are famous for that with their boas and pythons), the animal will either die because it cannot hunt or find an appropriate food source or it will disrupt food chains. I suppose it is fine as long as you don't advertise it but be prepared to be fined if you're found out.

[CarlaSmit87]

When last year applying for import permits into Northern Cape it was granted for my beardy but the woman warned me that they will soon be classed as a invasive specie

[Beardie owner]

Ag people will still keep them even if they can or not. You will always find them. And you can just buy them in Gauteng and take them to the cape it's not such a long drive. And if you keep them only in your property and give no reason for animal protection to search your ground you can have a great life with any beardie in EC or so on.

[Davidc]

Guys please be careful what you post on a open forum.