Assessment Summary
A risk assessment for the Central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) has been conducted by the Department.
As a key component of risk assessment for import into Tasmania, conventional climate modelling was applied to compare the state’s environment with the species’ natural range. CLIMATCH revealed “low” potential for suitable habitat across the state, indicating little or no probability that Central bearded dragons could survive in the wild.
The risk assessment determined the Central bearded dragon as not dangerous to humans, having a moderate establishment risk and with a low consequence of establishment. It was therefore proposed the species be assigned to a moderate threat category.
Following the initial risk assessment, the Department considers permitting the importation of animals assessed as ‘moderate risk’ into the State as long as appropriate mitigation measures can be identified and applied.
Mitigation options to reduce the risk associated with importing the Central bearded dragon could include:
Limit importation to registered wildlife parks, zoos or businesses that display reptiles for educational purposes to ensure the holding facility meets the stringent keeping standards Tasmania applies to all such institutions and businesses;
Require any wildlife park, zoo or businesses that display reptiles for educational purposes to submit a Central bearded dragon species management plan prior to import; and
Require the wildlife exhibition facility licene holders to clearly demonstrate that they have proficient keepers for the species.
Assessment Documentation
Central Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps) (769Kb)