KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is holding an Exotic Pet Amnesty Day on Sunday in Osceola County.
Residents can surrender their exotic pets May 14 to officials without penalty, whether the person owns them legally or illegally. The event is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Osceola Heritage Park Extension Services Building in Kissimmee.
Officials said the program helps reduce the number of nonnative species being released into the wild in Florida.
Photos: FWC exotic pet surrenders
Pets will be given a health exam before being made available for adoption later that day to pre-registered, experienced individuals who are capable of caring to them.
Animals that will be accepted include nonnative species of reptiles, amphibians, mammals, birds, fish and invertebrates. Domestic animals, such as cats, dogs, guinea pigs and rabbits will not be accepted. Potential adopters should bring acceptance letters and any necessary permits with them.
Becoming an adopter is free, but applicants are required to register a minimum of four days prior to the event to adopt an animal. Adopter applications can be found at MyFWC.com/Nonnatives.