For more on this part of the insurance industry:
Exotic animals insurance is a type of cover that protects businesses and people who own, train, or work with non-domestic animals used in entertainment. Some common incidents covered include:
In the UK, exotic animals in entertainment are strictly monitored. Growing rules and public concern make this insurance vital to secure both the animals and businesses.
A tiger handler at Dreamworld, an Australian theme park, was injured during a routine interaction in 2024. As a result, the park stopped all human-tiger interactions to improve safety.
This displays the threat of using these non-domesticated and unique animals in entertainment and the need for specialised insurance for exotic animals.
The UK recently passed the Animal (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Act. It bans the promotion of overseas activities that exploit animals, including exotic species. This may lead to stricter UK rules and increase insurance needs.
More circuses and shows are going animal-free which reduce insurance demand. There are also other issues in the world of exotic animals insurance, including:
Illness or accidents with exotic animals can cancel events and cause money losses. Close contact also increases the hazard of spreading diseases.
Brokers should recommend strong safety rules and full exotic animals insurance to protect against these dangers.
Those who require this type of protection include:
Travelling circuses cannot use wild animals according to The Wild Animals in Circuses Act 2019. But static circuses may do so if they follow legal requirements and welfare standards.
Exotic animals insurance safeguards stakeholders who work with exotic species in entertainment. It covers financial losses from accidents, injuries or unexpected events.
Example scenarios of how exotic animals insurance can help:
animal performances: covers legal fees if a parrot injures an audience member
film productions: pays for damage if a snake escapes and destroys property
educational displays: covers vet costs if a lizard falls ill at an event
transport incidents: pays for injuries if a tiger is hurt in transit
theft or loss: compensates owners if a rare reptile is stolen
Exotic animals insurance allows owners and entertainment companies to recover from financial setbacks caused by various incidents.
How much is reptile insurance in the UK?
Reptile insurance in the UK costs between £4 and £20 per month, depending on coverage. Some policies may cost £145 per year and cover vet fees, death, and theft.
Several factors influence reptile insurance costs:
The right policy relies on these factors and the level of cover needed.
A licence is required to keep certain exotic animals under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976. This includes:
Local councils issue these licences. They make sure that owners meet safety and welfare standards.
A valid licence proves legal compliance, which can affect insurance coverage and costs. Insurers may ask for proof of licensing before providing liability cover.
Without a licence, exotic animals insurance claims may be denied or premiums may increase.
Owners must follow the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to provide proper care, housing, and medical attention. Animals must live in suitable environments, eat species-appropriate diets, and receive regular vet checks.
The Performing Animals (Regulation) Act 1925 requires trainers to register with local authorities. Productions often work with welfare groups to ensure safe conditions on set.
Yes, exotic animals insurance can include public liability for injuries or damages and vet cover for health issues.
