Reptiles of Concern

There are currently no reptiles listed as Reptiles of Concern. 

Former Reptiles of Concern are now listed as Prohibited species, effective April 29, 2021. Prohibited reptiles may not be acquired for personal possession or commercial use. Only researchers and public exhibitors may apply for a permit to import or possess Prohibited reptile species.

The species below were formerly listed as Reptiles of Concern and are now listed as Prohibited species; however, people who have been authorized for personal possession of one of the following species on a valid License to Possess Venomous Reptiles or Reptiles of Concern (VRC) since before July 1, 2010 may keep their animal for the remainder of its life: 

• Indian or Burmese python(Python molurus)
• Reticulated python (Python reticulatus)
• Northern African python (Python sebae)
• Southern African python (Python natalensis)
• Amethystine python (Morelia amethistinus)
• Scrub python (Morelia kinghorni)
• Green anaconda (Eunectes murinus)
• Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus)

The rule changes effective April 29, 2021 do not affect existing licensees with a valid VRC from the Captive Wildlife Office with a Reptile of Concern possessed prior to July 1, 2010. Licensees should continue to maintain their VRC license for their pet Reptile of Concern for the remainder of their animal’s life. No new VRC licenses will be issued for pet Reptiles of Concern obtained after July 1, 2010.

Anyone who possesses a former Reptile of Concern and can no longer keep their animal may relinquish it through the FWC’s Exotic Pet Amnesty Program.