Caiman captured in Toronto pond

[Catherine]

It was a rather exciting and exotic event. However, the Caiman is not legally allowed in Toronto. We have very carefully thought out rules about size etc. Owning local wildlife is totally forbidden. Things like monkeys are not allowed. Chickens are being debated and it could go either way.

My first question before I get any pet(usually a reptile pet) is "How big will it get?" Columbian Red tailed Boas are within the legal limit, but they are out of my personal range. I can't lift an adult without help.
My second question is "How long will it live?" I am a little too old to take on a pet with a 50 year life span.
Then I start asking about food and habitat.

Any pet is a commitment, but I think reptiles need more from us. We have to meet their food and habitat needs if they are going to thrive.
Like any animal they deserve to have security for their whole lives. It is not okay to just ditch something because it is just a reptile.

Quote:Given that there are so many 'pets' that are released after years in captivity and they are able to survive and fend for themselves, it makes me wonder why Seaworld and some zookeepers are so against releasing whales and dolphins with the flawed argument that they wouldn't know how to survive...

Good point!