Bringing tortoise abroad

[Zac dale]

Hi all,

I have a small leopard tortoise and my dad told me we are going to be moving back to England soon (from Hong Kong) I will be flying on Cathay Pacific airlines. Is it possible to bring a tortoise back to the UK? Thanks

Zac Dale

 

[wellington]

I would first call the airlines and see if you can bring him on with you. Chances are you won't be able too. If you can then look further into whether he would be allowed to enter the country.
You might be able to google it.
@JoesMum might be able to help.

 

[JoesMum]

@Zac dale

Import rules for any animal are extremely strict in the UK

You will need full CITES paperwork, with a microchip, for your tortoise showing that it is captive bred and not taken from the wild. Then you will need an import permit.

It is likely be taken into a six month quarantine by UK Customs on arrival that you will have to pay for.

Not all airlines are even willing to transport tortoises - that's another minefield completely.

You/your family need to speak to DEFRA about the rules
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cites-imports-and-exports

It will be a costly exercise and I fully understand you wanting to do it, but the costs and hurdles may make it kinder to find a good home for your tort in Hong Kong.

 

[enchilada]

just buy a new one in UK

 

[HenleyT]

Awww...my goes out to you if you have to leave your tort behind .....Good luck