'You need a licence to own a dog but not a crocodile': Lack of exotic animal laws puts public at risk

Gang figures are neglecting exotic animals, but outdated laws do little to stop their import, writes Sarah Horgan

James Hennessy, who runs the National Reptile Zoo in Kilkenny and his colleague, vet Joana Santos. Picture: Dylan Vaughan

The owner of Ireland’s National Reptile Zoo has been called to assist gardaí after drug raids where they uncovered crocodiles being kept as pets in bathrooms of gang figures. 

James Hennessy leads a colourful life, overseeing his beloved reptile zoo in Kilkenny, a conservation project catering for everything from snakes to alligators.