The macaw, skunk or ocelot are among the exotic animals that Spaniards have acquired. Yet experts remind that keeping such species—many of which are invasive—hampers biodiversity, public health and even citizen safety.
To curb illegal possession and trade of these animals, organizations like the Foundation for Advice and Action in the Defense of Animals FAADA, the National Association for Animal Defense ANDA, and the APP Primadomus Positive List Coalition are pursuing a targeted approach. The effort outlines what may and may not be kept in homes, according to Alberto Díez of ANDA. He notes that, despite existing negative animal lists, they often fail in practice because they are long and lag behind current realities, making it easier for us to know which animals should be on the list than to keep up with every possible exception.
A scientific committee will assess various characteristics of species proposed for inclusion in the list, including the potential danger they pose as pets, their capacity to spread disease, and how readily they can invade and colonize natural habitats. An owner may keep a banned animal at home if it was acquired before the publication of the list and may keep it until the animal dies of old age.
APP Primadomus’ director adds that this initiative, echoing similar proposals in other European countries such as Belgium, takes a preventive stance and addresses the problems caused by exotics through a single tool. The aim is to strengthen animal rights protections and simplify enforcement, according to Martha Merchan.
The Positive List Coalition has emphasized the ongoing role of animal and conservation groups since 1997, with International Animal Rights Day observed every December 10. APP Primadomus reports that its facilities house 130 to 150 exotic mammals, including primates and large cats formerly kept in entertainment venues. Merchan notes that these animals are difficult to relocate due to private property and illegal trafficking and could become invasive if released into the wild.
Another collection center focused on exotic birds is Ave Fénix, where birds arrive for various reasons, including abandonment when they are small or when owners later regret the commitment, or because household circumstances have changed. Gladys Freginals, the manager and founder, explains that the birds can be loud, dirty, costly to maintain, and sometimes linked to relationship breakups.
This organization is currently caring for 337 birds across 32 species, a daunting figure that reflects limited support with resources and space. Many birds arrive in poor condition because cages have been damaged or the birds arrive hairless due to stress and malnutrition. Finding suitable housing for medium to large birds also remains a major challenge, as many owners do not meet the necessary standards for animal care.
Both Ave Fénix and APP Primadomus agree that a primary obstacle is citizens’ lack of awareness before purchasing an exotic pet. People often do not fully understand the needs or care requirements involved, leading to inappropriate ownership and abandonment or neglect. This gap in public knowledge underscores the need for clearer guidance, stricter monitoring, and better education about the responsibilities of keeping non-native species.
Cited sources indicate that ongoing collaboration among advocacy groups, veterinary professionals, and policymakers can help establish practical, enforceable measures. By focusing on prevention, enforcement, and public education, communities can reduce the risks associated with keeping exotic pets and support humane treatment and conservation goals. The conversation continues as professionals work to balance individual interests with broader ecological and public health priorities. [FAADA, ANDA, APP Primadomus citations]