Blackbutt Reserve rocked as thieves steal all its reptiles

A wildlife reserve has been devastated after its entire exhibit of reptiles was stolen by thieves over two separate nights.

The shocking attacks on Blackbutt Reserve at New Lambton, on NSW’s central coast, saw dozens of different reptiles taken from their enclosures at the animal sanctuary.

Among the dozens of animals taken in the two attacks on Friday and Sunday were a selection of lizards, dragons and pythons – a number of which are endangered.

The shocking attacks on Blackbutt Reserve (pictured) at New Lambton, on NSW’s central coast, saw dozens of different reptiles taken from their enclosures at the animal sanctuary

Appealing for information about the incident, NSW police said they were hunting the culprits amid fears the animals may be sold on the black market.

Taking to Facebook on Sunday morning, the reserve announced the news, including that it had been forced to cancel all reptile shows until the animals are found.

‘At 1.30 am today Blackbutt Reserve was broken into, thieves stole all our collection of loved reptiles!

‘Woma pythons, spotted pythons, olive pythons, frilled neck lizards, shingle back lizards and many more.

‘Unfortunately (we) will be cancelling our daily reptile show at 11 am, sorry for the inconvenience.’

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Taking to Facebook on Sunday morning, the reserve announced the news, including that it had been forced to cancel all reptile shows until the animals are found (pictured)

Among the dozens of animals taken in the two attacks on Friday and Sunday were a selection of lizards, dragons and snakes (pictured) – a number of which are endangered