Research from Born Free has revealed Dorset is home to a couple of dangerous animals registered to private addresses.

The charity's most recent survey from 2020 shows there are 3,951 dangerous wild animals licensed to be kept privately in Great Britain, with potentially many more being kept without a licence.

In that total, there are 210 private addresses across 129 local authorities with licenses to keep dangerous wild animals such as lions, tigers, crocodilians, and venomous reptiles.

Under current rules, there are no restrictions for keeping most wild animal species as pets in the UK.

If they are considered potentially dangerous, a Dangerous Wild Animal licence is required from the relevant Local Authority.

Born Free says there are numerous species, many would consider dangerous, not listed under the 1976 act including Komodo dragons and large constrictor snakes.

The foundation has created an interactive map, making it easier to see where these wild and potentially dangerous animals are kept.

The website can be used to search for the animals kept across the UK and is broken down by counties and local authorities.

Wild animals being kept in Dorset

Dorset Echo: There are two Spectaced Caiman living in Dorset. Picture: CanvaThere are two Spectaced Caiman living in Dorset. Picture: Canva

The map reveals there are a couple of snappy characters residing at private addresses in Dorset.

Located far from thier native lands, somewhere in West Dorset, are two Spectacled Caiman.

Prefering the warmer climate, these crocodilians are native to much of Latin America and can range in size from just over a meter long to potentially as big as 2.5 meters.

They can move rapidly when they need to, but are generally found resting on shores or partially submerged. Not a pet for the feint hearted, at certain times of the year, males can become aggressive and territorial.

But don't be too terrified as their diet generally consists of crabs, fish, mammals, and snails.

Born Free has called on the UK government to undertake a comprehensive review of exotic pet ownership which includes the existing dangerous wild animal legislation.

There are multiple ways you can get involved in the campaign, including by writing to your MP and donating directly to the charity.

Find out more via the Born Free website.