MONROE — J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue (JRAAR), in partnership with the Green County Land and Water Conservation Department and the Upper Sugar River Watershed Association, successfully hosted an Exotic Pet Surrender Event on Feb. 28 at the Green County Land and Water Conservation Department Office in Monroe.

Held during National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW), the event focused on preventing the release of exotic pets into the wild by providing a safe and responsible surrender option for owners facing life changes.

During the event, more than 20 animals were responsibly surrendered, including:

● 1 cockatiel

● 3 turtles

● 1 sulcata tortoise

● 5 bearded dragons

● 5 leopard geckos

● 4 guinea pigs

● 3 rabbits

● 1 African grey parrot

Each of these animals is now receiving professional care and will undergo a mandatory quarantine and health evaluation before being made available for adoption through J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue.

Exotic pet releases are a leading cause of invasive species establishment. When non-native animals are released, they can struggle to survive, spread disease, or disrupt local ecosystems. Events like this provide a compassionate alternative that protects both animals and Wisconsin’s natural resources.

“This event is about solutions,” said Macy Wolke-Yohr, Invasive Species Specialist with J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue. “When life circumstances change, surrendering a pet is the responsible choice. It protects native wildlife, prevents ecological harm, and gives these animals a second chance.”

J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue has helped and re-homed more than 11,000 exotic animals since 2020 and continues to host surrender events across Wisconsin.

A full list of upcoming Exotic Pet Surrender Events can be found at: https://www.jraar.org/exoticpetsurrenderevents.

For additional information, contact Macy Wolke-Yohr at Macy.Y@jraar.org.