CLEAR Exotic Animal Rescue and Rehab

Director of Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Angel Rubi Navarijo and Communications Coordinator Audrey Champelli had the pleasure of attending a lesson and demonstration with Jessica Katz from Chicagoland Exotic Animal Rescue (CLEAR) to learn best practices for when you see an exotic animal.

An exotic animal is one that is not native to the area and does not generally live on its own in the wild. Often these are escaped or abandoned pets such as birds, fish, or snakes/reptiles.

If you come across what you believe to be an exotic animal, CLEAR recommends lightly tossing a towel on top of it to capture it as this tends to be a safe method for most reptiles and birds. Then, call CLEAR at 773-349-2882. CLEAR will collect the animal, make sure it receives any rehabilitating treatment it needs, and work to re-home it.

Soon after Angel and Audrey attended the presentation, CLEAR rehomed a young cornsnake with one of our own: Infrastructure Intern Gensis Morro! She was so excited to welcome Lacey home!

Visit CLEAR’s site to learn more about how you can get involved with their work, from donating to adopting a scaly/feathery friend for yourself!