Some of the world’s most dangerous wild animals are living at private addresses here in Bucks, a new survey has shown.

A survey carried out by the Born Free Foundation has discovered that 4,798 dangerous wild animals are being privately kept in Great Britain – 36 of which are living in Buckinghamshire.

There are at least 13 sitatunga antelope, three cats, including two serval cats, two Chinese alligator, 16 primates – including eight Capuchin monkeys and two ring-tailed lemurs – and two Brazilian tapirs.

Currently, under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act of 1976, anyone in Britain can keep a dangerous wild animal as long as they obtain a licence from their local authority.

The licence application merely requires them to demonstrate that their animals are properly contained and not at risk of escape.

Born Free is calling for a review of the legislation covering the keeping of wild animals as pets, including the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976, and calling for more restrictions on the ownership of dangerous wild animals.

The survey also revealed that a total of 218 private addresses are hosting dangerous wild animals across Britain, including 250 wild cats and 50 big cats and at least 650 venomous snakes, including puff adders, black mambas and diamondback rattlesnakes.

Dr Chris Draper, head of animal welfare and captivity for Born Free, said: “The keeping of wild animals as pets is a growing concern. The widespread use of the internet has made it easier than ever to ‘order’ or purchase a wild animal without clarification as to where it has come from or how it should be cared for.

“Wild animals are particularly vulnerable to welfare problems because of their complex social, physical and behavioural needs.”