Quick question

[pacific chelonians]

I collect different species of turtles/tortoise shells I am trying to figure out what the legalities are on buying them from a different country, if anyone knows please jump in here.

Crazy photo I found on the internet for attention

 

[Yvonne G]

I watched many TV episodes regarding animal stealing, etc. and they always said it was illegal to have the shells skins, etc. from any endangered or illegal animal.

 

[pacific chelonians]

I watched many TV episodes regarding animal stealing, etc. and they always said it was illegal to have the shells skins, etc. from any endangered or illegal animal.

Well I know having them is no more illegal then owning a living one for example a Russian tortoise the shell isn’t illegal if the animal isn’t illegal. I’m not talking about sea turtles to clarify

 

[turtlesteve]

Chris, as far as I know the laws that apply for shells would be exactly the same as if they were still alive.

 

[pacific chelonians]

Andrew, as far as I know the laws that apply for shells would be exactly the same as if they were still alive.

Good to know thank you

 

[The_Four_Toed_Edward]

If I were to research this I would start by looking into the CITES. It applies to both live animals and plants and products made from endangered species, such as natural medicines or souvenirs. I would guess this means tortoise and turtle shells as well.