AN EXOTIC reptile was found trapped inside a plastic container that was meant to transport insects.
The bearded dragon, affectionately nicknamed Dumbledore by SSPCA staff due to the wizard’s own glorious facial hair, was found by a member of the public near Gilmerton Road in Edinburgh on Saturday night.
The “tiny beardie” which is eight-weeks-old and about six inches long is being cared for by the SSPCA’s Lothian Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre.
Dumbledore is hoping to be magicked back to his rightful owner
Bearded dragons, which are native to the Australian outback, have become more popular over the years with pet owners due to their sociable nature and the way they act which makes them fascinating to watch.
They can live for up to 10 years and can grow up to two feet long.
They are most commonly fed on crickets and other small insects and even peas and carrots.
SSPCA Senior Inspector Jenny Scott said: “Dumbledore was found inside a small tub which had holes pierced in the lid. It’s similar to the type of container crickets are sold in.
“As unlikely as it may seem, Dumbledore could have been recently purchased and taken away inside the tub only to be accidentally dropped.
“However we are also looking at the possibility someone has purposefully abandoned this young animal. Thankfully Dumbledore is lively and in overall good condition.
“We hope the public will be able to help us with our enquiries so we can find out how this tiny beardie came to be there.”
Strangely enough, on the same day Dumbledore was found, a person called Tanya M. on Twitter posted a picture of a bearded dragon that said: “My new pet Lizard Dumbledore! =D …. Not really, I wish *sigh*”
The SSPCA were unaware of the tweet and are now investigating it.
Anyone with information of Dumbledore should call the SSPCA Helpline on 03000 999 999.
