Some advice.

[Tristan]

Hi guys :)

I'm new here and I'm from Iceland.

Here, all reptiles are illegal :angry:
I have a chance to get a beautiful Ball Python for free and I really want him.

About 7 years ago me and my husband owned two corn snakes and Californian King snake. But now we have to kids, age 4 and 6.

We have no place to hide the snake, but I was wondering if there is anyone here in the same situation?
I'm wondering if I could just tell my kids that the snake has to be a top secret, or else the police will come, take the snake and kill it.

[Minkness]

Hello.

That is most unfortunate to hear about the laws against all reptiles in iceland.

As for hiding a snake in a country they aren't allowed, I have nothing really to say in that other than...well...you shouldn't.

The reptile community is already frowned on by many, so any law breaking only gives more people the ammo to hate us and outlaw our beloved animals. So it is not advisable that you do this.

Especially with children in the mix. I can go into what morals and ethics this teaches them, but I won't. The issue is that no kid can keep secrets, and it is my opinion that no parent should put that kind of pressure on a child.

[EL Ziggy]

Welcome aboard Tristan. I agree with Mink, it's best to obey the law in this case.

[sattva]

I have to ask! ...What is the reasoning behind making all reptiles illegal?

[SerpentineDream]

There's no way the kids will be able to keep it a secret. They'll be excited and proud of their cool new pet and the temptation to share it will be too great. The snake (and the kids) will pay the price.

Is it possible to address this issue with your government? Perhaps start a petition to change the law and present your case to your legislative body? If you can get other reptile lovers on board you might be able to effect change. That might take time (or not happen at all) depending on how responsive your lawmakers are to the people, but working to change the rules for the benefit of all reptile lovers seems to be the best solution IMO.

[dannybgoode]

I didn't know this about Iceland. The lad certainly can't be over concerns about wild populations establishing themselves so it would be interesting to know what the reasoning is.

As to what to do. Officially I can only agree with what others have said...

[macandchz]

that is a real shame that snakes aren't allowed. wonder why they have a law like that? if it's some ancient thing or religious thing maybe it can be challenged. where is the snake now? i wouldn't trust the kids to keep the secret and i wouldn't want the snake killed.