Exit the dragon, the chase is on

By LOUISA CLEAVE

Rare and expensive pets have been targeted in thefts at two Auckland pet shops.

A bearded dragon lizard worth just under $2000 was snatched from Jansens in Mt Eden this week.

Pet store staff chased a man after he allegedly forced open a display tank and put the six-week-old baby lizard in his pocket.

A man driving by joined in the chase and stopped the suspect with a tackle, police said.

The man denied having a lizard but a few minutes later police turned up - and so did the lizard, crawling out from under a nearby fence.

"It was evident at that point he had taken the lizard," said Jansens' livestock manager Graham Cater.

The man has been charged with theft and wilful damage.

An unrelated raid on the Bird Barn in Henderson, West Auckland, last month saw more than 50 birds, some worth hundreds of dollars each, taken.

Among them was the shop's popular pet, Pepe, worth at least $1000.

Bird Barn owner David Jones jnr said Pepe had been with him for 15 years and was a bad-tempered bird who would squawk loudly and bite.

"He only ever liked me. He's a real screamer but I didn't mind him. I wouldn't wish him on anyone else. I think they'll be sorry they took him."

Other birds taken include maroon-bellied conures, peach-faced lovebirds, eastern rosellas, budgies, canaries and a female Alexandrine parakeet with a damaged nostril.

Mr Jones said it was believed more than one person was involved in the carefully planned raid on July 6 and police were investigating.

It was the store's first major theft in 25 years of business, he said.

The thieves selected certain birds then nailed the wire back to prevent the other birds escaping.

Mr Jones said bird enthusiasts were aware of the theft and a reward was offered for information leading to recovery of the birds.

Bearded dragon lizards retail for between $1500 and $2000 in pet stores and require special care, including a 24-hour heat source of 35-40C.

The stolen lizard was not hurt and is due to go home with its new owners today.

* Four german shepherd puppies were taken from a Papakura property on July 11. They had been tattooed that afternoon and have the markings GKA 226, 227, 228 and 229 inside their ears.