Owners of exotic pets are being encouraged to submit pictures of their animals for a new photographic competition being organised by a Suffolk vet.

Pigmy hedgehogs, skunks, ferrets, amphibians, fish, birds, snakes and other reptiles are among those that could win a portrait photoshoot. Dogs and cats are excluded.

Catherine Thomas, of Suffolk Exotic Vet Services, in Felixstowe, is holding the event to mark her first year in business. She said: “A wide variety of pets are categorised as exotic – from hamsters and guinea pigs to lizards and snakes. I am hoping for some great photos.”

All entries should be emailed, along with 100 words about the pet to competition@exoticvetsuffolk.co.uk by April 13.