A Wodonga man who took reptiles from the wild and kept lizards and snakes in his home without a licence has been fined $8000.
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Staff from the Conservation Regulator seized blue tongue lizards, a black headed python, eastern bearded dragon and four carpet pythons from the house in October 2019.
The man said the dozen animals were like his children.
But he had failed to obtain a wildlife permit despite previously having a licence which expired in 2005.
He admitted to taking several of the blue tongues from the wild, including one that had been hit by a car.
He was convicted of nine breaches of the Wildlife Act in the Wodonga Magistrates Court on Tuesday, and was fined and ordered to pay costs.
Conservation Regulator spokesman Andrew Dean said taking animals from the wild can have an impact on the environment.
"It's important for people to hold a valid wildlife licence to protect and conserve our native species," he said.
"The Conservation Regulator monitors wildlife permit holders to make sure they're abiding by licence conditions.
IN OTHER NEWS:
"Removing wildlife from the wild can have a serious impact on both animal welfare and wildlife populations.
"Injured wildlife require expert care, treatment and rehabilitation from wildlife carers.
"We encourage members of the public who may have information about wildlife crimes to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000, as even a small amount of information may lead to a significant outcome."
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