Animal welfare campaigners have commended the Austin Sports and Social Club in Longbridge – as well as Birmingham City Council – for preventing an ‘illegal snake market’ from taking place on Saturday (12th October).
Trading in pet animals at market stalls is illegal due to poor welfare conditions at temporary events. The Animal Protection Agency say that snakes need to be able to stretch fully for their wellbeing but are often forced to remain coiled in tiny, cramped, plastic boxes without adequate environmental controls – temperature, lighting and humidity – for their needs.
It is claimed by the APA that organisers of commercial reptile markets target unsuspecting venues, claiming their events are ‘shows’, ‘breeders’ meetings’ or ‘exhibitions’.
When welfare organisation, Animal Protection Agency (APA) received a tip-off giving information about the secretly organised event at the Austion Sports and Social Club, they alerted both the Council and the Social Club. Both took action to prevent the market from taking place, actions that have been described as “commendable”.
APA Director Elaine Toland said: “Snakes are sentient and intelligent animals that do not deserve to be subject to the appalling maltreatment that is typical of reptile markets. The Council and the Social Club were given very little time to respond but they pulled out all the stops to ensure illegal trading did not take place. Their actions are commendable.”
The Director of Freedom for Animals, Dr Andrew, added: “We would like to thank the Austin Sports & Social Club for taking prompt action to prevent this market from proceeding. It has been well documented that illegal trading takes place at these events, and we are pleased that Birmingham City Council and the Social Club acted on the information provided. We hope that all local authorities and potential venues take similar action in the future.”
Dr Charlotte Regan, Wildlife Campaign Manager for World Animal Protection also commended the club and the Council, saying: “Reptile markets are inherently associated with a number of highly concerning animal welfare issues. They are outdated events which should have no place in our society. We thank The Austin Sports & Social Club, and Birmingham City Council, for taking decisive action to protect animals.”
As well as safeguarding animal welfare, action taken by the Austin Sports & Social Club and Birmingham City Council served to protect human health. Reptile markets present a significant health hazard due to reptile-related salmonellosis, particularly in venues where food and drink are consumed. Post-event contamination is also an issue where vulnerable groups such as children or the elderly are subsequent users of the venue.
Campaigners are warning venues across Birmingham to be wary of booking any reptile-related events, citing a recent increase in attempts to stage prohibited markets.
For more information or advice, visit the APA website.