Stowaways

From time to time reptiles, amphibians and spiders hide themselves away in items being shipped to the UK, or hide themselves stowed away in luggage of people who have been travelling abroad only to make an appearance when they arrive home.

The NCRW provides an identification service for animals when they have been found, advice and guidance on safe isolation and containment and will arrange transportation of the animal to either the NCRW or to another suitable rescue or organisation depending on the anima.

Any endangered species found are taken to a suitable zoo, wildlife centre or specialist organisation to keep them as safe as possible.

The NCRW do not advertise where animals have been found, nor will they post locations or details of those who have found them on social media or in any form of public media. All reports are recorded and data collected.

Report a Stowaway

Where do stowaways come from?

Shipping Containers

Reptiles and Spiders are notorious for hiding themselves in little nooks and crevices like wood, which is then shipped to the UK. These little creatures are then found on arrival to the UK.

Plants

Occasionally small frogs and reptiles hide themselves in plants and flowers that are being shipped in to the UK from abroad. These little creatures are often found when the items are unloaded or when they are purchased.

Fruit & Vegetables

We sometimes get reports of frogs, spiders or other small creatures that have somehow survived the washing and packing process of fruit picking and transportation, and then turn up in the UK.

Luggage

We occasionally get reports of small lizards and other reptiles who have found their way inside luggage of travellers abroad who are then discovered when they return to the UK.

National Centre for Reptile Welfare