A crocodile, wild cats and two monkeys are living in Greater Manchester
Born Free has revealed the exotic and 'dangerous' animals living in the region.
Last updated 18th Jul 2018
Forget your neighbours' dogs and cats, a survey has revealed a Dwarf Caiman crocodile and a serval cat are being kept at private addresses in Rochdale.
Two Capuchin monkeys are also living in Salford, as well as two African wild cats in Tameside, thanks to licences issued under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976.
But the wildlife charity Born Free is petitioning the government to review the law and stop 'deadly' creatures being in kept in unsuitable environments.
Dr Chris Draper, head of animal welfare and captivity for Born Free, said: "The keeping of wild animals as pets is a growing concern.
"The widespread use of the internet has made it easier than ever to order or purchase a wild animal without clarification as to where it has come from or how it should be cared for.
"Wild animals are particularly vulnerable to welfare problems because of their complex social, physical and behavioural needs.
"They require specific housing conditions, dietary requirements and furthermore, the safety risk these animals pose to their owners and the wider public should not be ignored."