Bellmore, NY – Following a complaint by Humane Long Island, the Nassau County SPCA led a multi-agency investigation of a North Bellmore man who had hoarded 100 animals inside his basement and backyard. Federal, state, and local authorities issued the man 30 violations relating to illegal possession of animals.
Humane Long Island took custody of several dozen animals, including a Lesser Rhea—also known as a South American ostrich—two peafowl, and dozens of chickens, domestic ducks and geese. Among the other animals confiscated by state and local authorities during the raid in Bellmore were an endangered Tiger Salamander, a Giant African Snail, a North American opossum, two Prairie dogs, an Asian water monitor, a Savannah monitor, a Sulcata tortoise, several Degus, and a variety of other reptiles, including snakes and turtles.
This joint investigation began after a fairgoer observed what appeared to be an unlicensed exhibitor exhibiting animals at the Bellmore Street Festival this past October.