MEET Jaxson, a close relative of the alligator family, who lives in East Lancashire with his owner Dave.

The 4ft dwarf spectacled caiman is three years old and already looks a handful - but he is expected to reach up to 7ft when he reaches maturity.

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Jaxson is regarded as a ‘wild animal’ and is registered to Reptile Wonderland owner David McGlynn who said he feeds his pet on rats, mice, beef heart and chicken.

“We have just moved premises to accommodate Jaxson. He’s a great pet and we will continue to adapt his surroundings as he grows,” said David.

The reptile who is the mascot of Reptile Wonderland can live up to 40 years and needs lots of care and nurturing as well as adaptations to ensure he is as close to the wild as possible.

This includes a pool with a temperature of 76 degrees celcius and a UV light for tropical heat.

According to David, who has kept reptiles for over 30 years, a caiman is an easy pet to keep if you know what you’re doing.

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“Jaxson has a good temperament, he isn’t aggressive and I haven’t been snapped up yet! He is well behaved as long as you don’t take him out of his pond. You can go in and clean his surroundings and he won’t bother you,” said David.

Plans to breed Jaxson aren’t in the pipeline yet because caiman are generally aged ten to 12 before they mate.

David added: “Jaxson will get bigger and may start a family of his own but in the meantime he is still too young. He is a pleasure to keep for those experienced in caring for a reptile but I wouldn’t recommend or sell on an animal like this to those who are inexperienced.”

For the first time since he was born Jaxson will be on display to customers in the pet shop when the store holds an open event this weekend.

Other reptiles at the shop include a bearded lizard, snakes, iguanas and chameleons. Visit Jaxson and the shop’s other animals on Saturday from10.30pm to 6pm and Sunday from 11am to 4pm.