FIVE crocodiles and ten venemous snakes are being privately kept in Monmouthshire, a new survey has revealed.

Research by animal rights organisation, Born Free Foundation, found that a total of 49 dangerous wild animals are currently kept in the borough.

There are also eight bison, 16 ostriches, five venomous lizards, and five venomous spiders or scorpions.

Under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act of 1976, anyone in Britain can keep a dangerous wild animal providing they have a licence from their local authority.

The figure show a total of 306 animals regarded as dangerous are kept privately across Wales.

Born Free Foundation are now petitioning the UK Government to review the law and create more restrictions, fearing the creatures are kept in unsuitable environments.

It also wants a licence introduced for large constrictor snakes.

Head of Animal Welfare and Captivity for Born Free, Dr Chris Draper, said: "The keeping of wild animals as pets is a growing concern.

"The widespread use of the internet has made it easier than ever to ‘order’ or purchase a wild animal without clarification as to where it has come from or how it should be cared for.

"Wild animals are particularly vulnerable to welfare problems because of their complex social, physical and behavioural needs.

"They require specific housing conditions, dietary requirements, and furthermore, the safety risk these animals pose to their owners and the wider public should not be ignored."

The survey found no wild dangerous animals were being kept anywhere else in Gwent.

However, it is believed there are many unlicensed wild animals being illegally kept across Wales.

To sign the Born Free Foundation petition visit www.petition.parliament.uk/petitions/221050