You might expect to find squirrels, birds or a few creepy crawlies living in a bush on a south Essex roadside - but what about a five-foot long iguana?

This magnificent reptile was recovered from the side of a road in Thurrock after having been dumped by its previous owners.

Now wildlife rescue specialist Sue Schwar, who rescued and is looking after the iguana , has called on south Essex residents to think twice about buying exotic animals as pets.

Mrs Schwar, who runs the Orsett-based South Essex Wildlife Hospital, said prospective owners should be fully aware of how large and potentially dangerous some animals can become.

She said: "These animals need specialised habitats which are hard to create and maintain. A baby animal might seem cute but potential owners should remember that a nine-inch baby lizard could well turn into a dangerous beast five or six feet long.

"It is not fair to any animal to keep it in conditions which are not suitable."

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