Charges pending after 333 exotic animals seized from northeast Calgary building

In one of its largest seizures ever, 333 exotic animals have been taken from a building in northeast Calgary.

The Calgary Humane Society's protection and investigations department seized the animals, mostly reptiles, on Wednesday.

Though they won't elaborate, officials say the animals were not taken from a home. The investigation is ongoing and charges are pending.

The animals include several species of snakes, lizards, amphibians, invertebratesand spiders.

The animals were not being properly cared for, according to a spokesperson for the humane society.

"We are now caring for many reptiles and amphibians, whichhave very specific needs regarding food, lighting, heating and enclosures," said investigatorBrad Nichols.

The shelter's resources are stretched thin, so the humane society is asking for donations ofclean reptile enclosures, equipment and moneyfrom the public.