A man who admitted animal welfare charges involving 151 tortoises and other reptiles has been banned from owning and dealing in animals.
Ian Crosby, 48, of Llantwit Major in the Vale of Glamorgan, sold the animals in an internet business from his home.
But several tortoises in Crosby’s care had herpes which had spread among them, Barry magistrates were told.
The court heard 24 tortoises died within a month of being seized. The survivors are being cared for locally.
The animals, which also included five iguanas and a bearded dragon, were seized by Vale of Glamorgan inspectors in July 2008 after concerns were raised by vets.
Infected wound
The surviving tortoises are being cared for by the International Tortoise Association in Sully near Penarth.
Among the eight charges admitted by Crosby were that he failed to protect all the animals under his care from pain, injury, disease and suffering.
He also pleaded guilty to failing to provide a suitable environment for five iguanas and 151 tortoises.
In addition, he admitted failing to seek veterinary attention to treat an open infected wound on a bearded dragon, causing it to suffer.
Crosby was sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for two years. He will also be supervised for two months and carry out 200 hours of community service.
Magistrate chair Ann Campbell told Crosby: "You consistently ignored veterinary advice and you paid little heed to the welfare of the animals."
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