How to report a stowaway
or animal found in the wild
It is very important that you keep safe and do not take unnecessary risk, it is rare that stowaways are dangerous but there is a small chance the animal could be harmful.
What to do:
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Spiders, scorpions and snakes can be venomous, please do not touch or approach them until we have identified the animal, where possible keep them contained and keep an eye on them giving us a video call or sending us images via WhatsApp or message. 07897 692060 (this number operates 24/7)
For small animals such as geckos, lizards or frogs you can contain them using a Tupperware tub if you feel it is safe to do so.
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If you can safely take a picture on your phone and text or WhatsApp it to 07897 692060 or email it to info@ncrw.org.uk then call us to ensure we have received the images. Make sure that you send us the post code for where the animal is.
What we will do:
When we have received the picture or video we will call you back and inform you what the animal is and if it is potentially harmful or not, we will give you any other advice that is relevant to the situation. We will then request help one of our many volunteers across the UK to come and collect the animal. Usually, we can have someone on site within two hours.
Animals that are retrieved will be cared for; we will find them appropriate homes.
Report a non-native found in the wild
It is very important that you keep safe and do not take unnecessary risk, it is rare that stowaways are dangerous but there is a small chance the animal could be harmful. Most reports of snakes in the wild are escaped pets or UK Native Snakes.
Animals that are retrieved will be cared for; we will find them appropriate homes. We never euthanise animals unless it is on veterinarian advice.
