‘Tropical jungle’ of exotic animals in Wales ordered to relocate after neighbor complaints

A resident in rural Carmarthenshire has been instructed to remove a collection of exotic animals, including wallabies, porcupines, and parrots, following complaints from neighboring property owners about the noise and impact on the area. The site, often described as sounding like a “tropical jungle” at night, is located near Llannon.

James Wale, who moved to the 17-acre woodland two years ago after his previous rare bird business at Picton Castle in Pembrokeshire ended due to a lease expiry, was served enforcement notices by Carmarthenshire Council. The council alleged he had breached planning regulations by keeping non-agricultural animals and residing on the land without authorization.

During an appeal, seven objectors raised concerns regarding sanitation, stray animals, and persistent unusual noises. One neighbor stated the sounds were “not those of native species,” while another claimed the evening and nighttime noise resembled a tropical jungle, compounded by generator hums and dog barking. Additional complaints cited waterlogged ground and animals straying onto adjacent properties.

Llannon councillor Llinos Mai Davies argued that the operation negatively affected neighboring properties and altered the character of the locality. Evidence submitted included photographs of boggy conditions and the woodland access track off the A476.

A planning inspector appointed by Welsh ministers visited the site and dismissed Wale’s appeal. The inspector noted that while there was some forestry and agricultural activity, the primary operation was of a “fundamentally different character” and unauthorized. The menagerie included eagles, falcons, hornbills, skunks, mongooses, and various birds alongside horses, goats, chickens, and ducks.

Wale has been granted 12 months, an extension from the original six-month deadline, to cease keeping the non-agricultural animals, dismantle the enclosures, and restore the land to its original state. The inspector acknowledged that the unique mix of animals might require additional time to relocate appropriately. Additionally, Wale has one year to vacate the land, remove his log cabin, and address associated foul drainage issues. His planning agents indicated they intend to submit a new application to potentially retain the birds on the site.