Why Species First supports the aims of the REPTA Deleterious Gene Policy
Improving animal welfare rarely happens through a single piece of legislation, one organisation or one viewpoint.
Meaningful progress often comes from many different groups taking practical steps in the same direction.
Recently, Species First® chose to publicly support the aims of the REPTA Deleterious Gene Policy .
This was not a decision taken because we share the same perspective on every aspect of reptile keeping, breeding or trade. We do not.
Nor does it mean the policy is complete or that there are no opportunities for it to evolve further.
It reflects something much simpler.
When organisations take credible, evidence-informed steps that have the potential to improve animal welfare, I believe those steps should be recognised and encouraged.
A positive step for animal welfare
The REPTA policy seeks to reduce the continued breeding and commercial circulation of recognised reptile phenotypes associated with compromised welfare.
That is an important objective.
Over recent years, growing evidence has highlighted welfare concerns associated with particular colour and pattern morphs in some reptile species. Where there is credible evidence that a phenotype is associated with adverse welfare outcomes, reducing its continued propagation represents a positive step.
Equally important is the policy’s emphasis on responsible breeding practices and education.
Improving welfare is rarely achieved through prohibition alone. It also depends on increasing knowledge, encouraging good practice and supporting informed decision-making.
Recognising progress matters
It can sometimes feel easier to focus only on what still needs to change.
However, if we want organisations to continue improving welfare standards, it is also important to acknowledge genuine progress when it occurs.
Constructive recognition helps build trust, encourages further development and creates opportunities for collaboration across sectors that may not always share the same perspective.
Ultimately, the animals benefit when organisations are willing to engage with welfare concerns and work towards practical solutions.
A foundation for future development
Supporting the aims of this policy does not imply that every challenge surrounding reptile genetics has been resolved.
Genetics is a broad field, encompassing inherited disorders, deleterious phenotypes, genetic diversity, inbreeding, founder effects and long-term population management.
Different genetic issues arise through different biological mechanisms and may require different approaches to prevention and management.
As our understanding continues to develop, there may be opportunities to expand discussions around areas such as pedigree recording, monitoring genetic diversity, collecting population data and developing breeding strategies that support the long-term health of captive populations.
These are conversations that benefit from collaboration between breeders, veterinarians, geneticists, zoologists and welfare scientists.
Looking ahead
Species First was established to promote evidence-based, species-specific approaches to improving welfare for animals kept in captivity.
That means being prepared to ask difficult questions where welfare concerns exist.
It also means recognising positive developments when organisations take meaningful steps to improve welfare.
Supporting good practice and encouraging further progress are not contradictory.
Both are essential if we are serious about putting the needs of the species first.
Coming soon:
At Species First, we are building a growing library of evidence-based guidance to improve the welfare of exotic animals in captivity.
Forthcoming topics include:
Which exotic animals struggle most in captivity.
Best exotic pets for beginners: What responsible keepers should know.
The biggest welfare mistakes people make with exotic pets.
New blogs will be published regularly.