How Snakes and Scorpions Sneak Into the UK via Tourist Luggage from Kenya

The director of Ireland's National Reptile Zoo James Hennessy says that unsuspecting tourists unknowingly transport wild animals in their suitcases from places like Kenya to the UK.

In a TV appearance, Hennessy shares that these animals, including snakes, scorpions, geckos, and frogs, often find themselves in the belongings of travellers. In a recent incident, a woman unknowingly brought a venomous scorpion to her home in the UK, where it remained hidden in her bedroom for almost 12 days. Although the scorpion's bite was not deadly, it carried the risk of causing breathing problems, intense pain, and swelling. Hennessy explains that while not commonplace, such incidents are not unheard of.

“It’s not unusual – it’s not common, but it’s not unusual. It tends to be mostly geckos and we do get quite a few scorpions. Very occasionally some frogs and sometimes some snakes," says Hennessy.

The most frequently encountered animals are dehydrated geckos and scorpions, possibly due to rough handling and exposure to the pressurized environment of aircraft cargo. The scorpion's survival can be attributed to the underfloor heating in the woman's house, which provided a warm environment that suited its needs until experts relocated it to a secure facility. The woman, who unpacked her suitcase in her bedroom upon returning home, only discovered the scorpion two weeks later when she moved the bag.

The UK Government has implemented strict rules for bringing pets and exotic animals into Great Britain to ensure their survival. To avoid a lengthy quarantine period, cats, dogs, and ferrets must meet specific health and documentation requirements. Travellers from EU countries can also bring pet rodents, rabbits, invertebrates, amphibians, or reptiles with a health certificate. However, those coming from non-EU countries may face a four-month quarantine period, along with the need for permits or certificates for endangered species like certain reptiles and birds.