An official report from the Ministry of Environment and Water reveals a surprising picture of wild creature domestication in Bulgaria. By mid-2025, the exact number reaches an impressive 18,069 specimens inhabiting private homes and properties outside traditional scientific and zoological institutions.
The registered animals cover a wide spectrum of exotic species – from reptiles and exotic birds to specific rodents that are definitely not perceived as traditional pets. This phenomenon raises serious concerns among environmental experts regarding potential risks to the national ecosystem.
Among the main challenges, specialists point out the possible spread of unknown diseases, risks of uncontrolled release of exotic species into natural environments, and problems associated with incompetent rearing of such animals.
The Ministry is taking active measures for monitoring and control. Increased inspections are planned for the period of July-September, aimed at limiting illegal trade and ensuring adequate supervision of wild animal breeding and transportation in private homes.
The key goal of the institution is to create strict regulations and licensing regimes that guarantee biodiversity safety and prevent potential ecological incidents.