The Broadmeadows man, who was convicted of 16 charges, including animal cruelty and possessing illegal wildlife, was caught in a nature conservation reserve near Bendigo. 

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning wildlife officer, Phuong Tran, said it was a “possibility” illegal reptiles were circulating the licensed market.

Ms Tran, who said the stolen reptiles were mistreated, suggested the ill-conceived plans to steal native wildlife was severely damaging their environment.

“By lifting and displacing rocks, it can destroy their habitat,” she said.

“Even small changes to the position of rocks can allow predators, such as snakes, to enter the shelter.

“The breaches are serious and show a disregard for care of animals, the wildlife licensing system and the reptiles’ natural habitat.”

The convicted man, 50, was found with Shingle-back Lizards, Central Bearded Dragons and Eastern Water Skinks. 

He was fined $4000 in the Magistrates Court. 

The conviction follows the seizure of unlawfully collected Marbled Geckos near Harcourt late last year. 

DELWP senior wildlife officer Paul Ryan at the time alleged a Dunnstown man collected the species without a licence. 

The seizures are part of DELWP’s ‘Operation Granite’ – a departmental response to an increase in stolen reptiles and associated damage to their habitat.

The maximum penalties associated with taking and/or being in possession of unlawfully taken protected wildlife range from $7,750 - $37,000 and/or six to 24 months imprisonment.

Disturbing, damaging or destroying wildlife habitat is also an offence with a maximum penalty of $7,750.

If you suspect someone of being involved in these activities call 136 186. 

Information on private wildlife licences can be found on DELWP’s website.