Animals seized from wildlife education centre

The 31-year-old Oldbury man's company Tropical Inc is being investigated over claims dozens of exotic animals in his care were mistreated at his newly-built base.

Police and RSPCA officers entered the business, in Dunhampton, Worcestershire, in a dawn raid, confiscating nearly 70 animals under the Animal Welfare Act.

Glenn Arscott, Education Officer at Tropical Inc, said : "The premises in Dunhampton, which do belong to Tropical Inc, were raided on Thursday. Stephen was not arrested. We have been told not to say anything further."

The animals taken included meerkats, monkeys, an armadillo, parrots, snapping turtles, tortoises, snakes and a porcupine.

Mr Rowlands made a name for himself with regular appearances on ITV1's Alan Titchmarsh Show to show off his tortoises and reptiles.

His company's website states: "Our company aim is to educate all walks of life from nursery to university students on the natural behaviour of all exotic animals, through fun and interactive presentations and displays. We also give advice to people on the welfare of their exotic pets and offer a good home to ones that need it."

The animals have been temporarily rehomed at specialist centres while an investigation is carried out. An RSPCA spokesman said: "Five RSPCA inspectors, two police, five other specialists and a zoo vet attended an address in Worcester early Thursday morning and removed around 70 animals under suspicion of offences under the Animal Welfare Act.

"Among those taken were coatis, genets, an armadillo, owls, parrots, snapping turtles, tortoises, snakes, a porcupine, Harris hawks, meerkats and cotton-top tamarins.

"The police had applied for a warrant which was issued by the magistrates' court."

Planning permission for the Dunhampton site was granted last August, despite local protest. Local politicians expressed concern the site would exploit the animals for entertainment.

Mr Rowlands was unavailable for comment.