Police Shocked to Discover Animal in Netanya Apartment

In a coordinated operation between the Israel Police and the Nature and Parks Authority, a ring-tailed lemur – a species under threat of extinction – was discovered this week. This is the first time such an animal has been found in a private setting in Israel, as part of a broad effort against illegal wildlife trade.

The operation was launched following an explosion in Even Yehuda, which resulted in no injuries. During the searches, police located five suspects at a hotel in Tiberias. Further checks at one suspect's home revealed more animals being illegally kept – including the lemur, goldfinches, Egyptian chameleons, and a stuffed Israeli deer.

In addition to the wildlife, substances suspected to be drugs and an airsoft gun were also found. All the animals were transferred to the care of the Nature and Parks Authority.

Uri Laniel, head of the captivity wildlife division at the authority, described the case as unusual and severe: "This is the first time we have discovered a lemur in a private house in Israel. It is a delicate and sensitive animal not suited for domestic breeding. The lemur's health condition was poor – it was kept in solitude, in unsuitable conditions, and fed inappropriate food."

The lemur, originally from Madagascar, is found mainly in zoos in the country due to the difficulty of raising it. Keeping it by private citizens is completely prohibited.

The other animals found – especially the chameleons – are also cause for concern. According to Laniel: "The Egyptian chameleons found might become an invasive species and severely harm the local ecosystem."

Authorities emphasize that the wildlife trade has not only environmental implications but also health risks. There is a concern of disease transmission, such as rabies or tuberculosis, from animals to humans. The Nature and Parks Authority urges the public exposed to wildlife in an uncontrolled manner to seek medical examination.

"We will rescue any wild animal that is illegally in captivity," Laniel emphasized. "This case only underscores again the need for harsher penalties to create real deterrence."

The public is asked to report any illegal possession of animals – monkeys of any type are prohibited for private ownership – via the police hotline 100, or to the Nature and Parks Authority hotline.