64 Starving Geckos Rescued After 32 Found Dead in Bavaria Home
64 Starving Geckos Rescued After 32 Found Dead in Bavaria Home
32 dead geckos found at keeper's home in Bavaria - 64 Starving Geckos Rescued After 32 Found Dead in Bavaria Home
Authorities in Lower Franconia, Bavaria, have seized 96 geckos from a private reptile keeper's home. Of these, 32 were already dead when officials arrived. The surviving animals have now been moved to temporary care.
The discovery took place after veterinary officials inspected the keeper's facility. They described the living conditions as 'unbearable' and found 64 geckos still alive. The dead reptiles showed signs of starvation and dehydration, with initial reports indicating their basic needs had been neglected.
A forensic examination at the Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority (LGL) will confirm the exact cause of death. Meanwhile, the keeper faces charges under Germany's Animal Welfare Act. They reportedly refused to cooperate, verbally abusing both veterinary staff and police officers.
The keeper will also be held financially responsible for the investigation and the ongoing care of the rescued geckos.
The case will now proceed under animal welfare laws. The surviving geckos remain in temporary housing while the investigation continues. Officials have confirmed that neglect played a key role in the reptiles' deaths.