Wild Animals Kept as Exotic Pets

That the Parliament notes reported concerns regarding the welfare of wild animals kept as exotic pets in the Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency and across Scotland; recognises that some species have complex welfare needs that can make them unsuitable to be kept in a domestic environment; notes the recommendation made in 2022 by the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission’s Exotic Pet Working Group that a single list of species of animal that may legally be kept as pets should be compiled; understands that such a permitted-list approach would seek to ensure that species are assessed on the basis of animal welfare and other relevant considerations, and notes the calls on the Scottish Government to consider the introduction of such an evidence-based single permitted list.