A WOMAN stole three exotic lizards from a Morecambe pet shop - and then went back to try and buy some food for them.

And now she is being warned that the three baby Bearded Dragons may die.

"They are not the best pets to have when they are small," says Pet Shop manager Rachel Houghton.

"They need a lot of specialist care and the right equipment otherwise they could die."

Rachel says the woman went into the pet shop last Wednesday and wrapped one of the lizards in a towel before leaving.

She then went back on Saturday and took two more before trying to sell them to another pet shop - which refused to buy them.

"She then came back to our shop to try and buy some food for them," adds Rachel. "It makes you reluctant to stock exotic animals because they are expensive. The lizards are worth £80 each and it is a big loss to the shop."

The lizards get their Bearded Dragon name because of spikes under the chin that gives the appearance of a full beard. When fully grown they are about a foot long.

The little lizards are eight inches in length.

"They are quite ugly really and I can't believe the cheek of this woman to walk in twice to steal them," adds Rachel.

"And then to come back to try and buy food for them takes the biscuit."

The woman suspected of stealing the lizards is described as white with a slim build and long dark hair.

To help police, call 01524-63333.