BRISBANE, Queensland, Jan. 9 -- The Department of Environment and Science issued the following media release:
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The snakes were released to the wild by QPWS rangers and Kuuku Ya'u rangers
Eight snakes that were allegedly taken unlawfully from their habitat have been released back into the wild in far north Queensland following a tip-off, a vehicle intercept, and aseizure.
On 31December 2024, the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) received information about snakes being taken from the Lockhart River area on CapeYork Peninsula.
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers along with the Queensland Police Service conducted a vehicle intercept in the Coenarea.
A search of the vehicle allegedly revealed sixgreen tree pythons and two brown tree snakes, which were seized byRangers.
On 2January 2025, after the snakes had been assessed as being in good health, QPWS rangers and Kuuku Ya'u rangers released the snakes back to the wild in the Lockhart Riverarea.
Investigations into the incident are continuing.
Compliance Manager Mike Devery said green tree pythons are a spectacular 'near threatened' protected species that only occur in limited parts of CapeYork Peninsular.
"The removal of one near-threatened species from the wild can have significant and detrimental impacts on local populations," MrDeverysaid.
"Due to the striking colours of juvenile and adult green tree pythons, they are targeted by wildlife smugglers as part of the unlawful trade ofwildlife.
"Sadly, most green tree pythons that are removed from the wild will die during the smuggling process or once placed incaptivity.
"This is why we have zero tolerance for the removal of any native animal from the wild, and we will take strong action against anyone found in possession of native animals without apermit.
"Under the Nature Conservation Act1992, capturing native animals from the wild without a relevant permit isprohibited.
"Significant penalties apply for unlawfully taking a snake from the wild. Ifthe taking is from a National Park, the maximum penalty is $483,900 or two-years imprisonment."
Anyone with information about the illegal trade of native plants or animals should call 1300130372, and all reports areinvestigated.
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