47 native reptiles found
in man’s spare bedroom
A MAN has been fined $3000 plus costs of $1250 after 47 native reptiles were found in a bedroom of his house at Oxley, northwest of Hay.
Gareth John Boyd was convicted and fined in Hay Local Court this week of three offences under the National Parks and Wildlife Act – possess, sell and harm protected fauna.
Acting head of the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), Bob Conroy, says the conviction sends a warning to people that native wildlife is protected.
“NSW police assisted our staff in the execution of a search warrant on the offender’s premises in December last year,” says Mr Conroy.
“Our staff were disgusted at the sight they found: 34 shingleback lizards, five eastern blue tongue lizards, five eastern bearded dragons and one central bearded dragon, all living on the floor and in the cupboard of an unoccupied bedroom at the residence.
“There was no drinking water or appropriate housing.
“A barking gecko and marbled gecko were also found living in a blender at the premises.
“The offender and an acquaintance had planned to sell the group of shinglebacks to a third party for $1200 and split the proceeds.
“Instead he’ll be paying a penalty of more than $4000.
“This should serve as a warning to people that removing native fauna from the wild is an offence that NPWS and the police will pursue with the full force of the law,” Mr Conroy says. | 
Regional
