THE ADVERTISER (Bendigo, Australia) 25 September 09 DSE seizes tortoise

An Eaglehawk man faces a $24,000 fine and two years’ jail after the Department of Sustainability seized what is believed to be an illegally obtained tortoise from his home.

The eastern long-necked tortoise was seized during a routine inspection.

DSE wildlife officer Denis Gilmore said the eastern long-necked tortoise was a protected species.

He said owners must be able to prove they acquired the animal from a licensed dealer.

“The Wildlife Act prohibits the taking of species like this from the wild to protect local populations and prevent the potential spread of disease,” Mr Gilmore said.

Maximum penalties include a fine of $24,000 and two years jail for possessing unlawfully taken wildlife, and $5000 and six months jail for taking the animals from the wild.

“While this seizure was the result of a routine inspection, we also encourage members of the public to tell us of any wildlife offences they are aware of,” Mr Gilmore said. “Members of the public reporting suspected wildlife offences are helping to protect Victoria’s precious native wildlife and DSE takes all calls seriously.”

Anyone with information concerning wildlife offences can report them to DSE by phoning 136 186.
DSE seizes tortoise

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