Importing/Exporting Mammals

[Snipes]

I'm in Panama doing some research with some spineless wonders and a few days ago some local boys gave us 3 baby opossums because their dogs killed the mother, i think they are either wooly or mouse opossums. They have been doing alright and getting better and we are leaving May 24 so I am trying to get started thinking about their future. If they live, I doubt they should be let go since I don't know if attachment to people can be avoided and it would mean their death with the dogs around. If anyone has any experience in the matter of bringing in animals legally to the states, I would greatly welcome and appreciate the advise. I have not had a lot of time too look but so far it has looked complicated. Please do not advise me to smuggle them in; it can only lead to argument and this thread being being closed down.

 

[Snipes]

just a pic of a lil darlin!

 

[LeilaNami]

If you start now you might be able to bring them in if you can get the proper permits for importing/exporting. Otherwise, you're best bet will probably be trying to look for a colleague or local that knows enough to take care of them.

 

[UrbanJungles]

You'll need to contact the government's wildlife permitting dept. and declare your intentions. After alot of paperwork (which includes setting up inspection here in the US with your local Fish & Wildlife dept.) if the animals are not protected by CITES you should get the approval (after paying a fee). Then you have to actually book a flight for them (assuming you can get them on your flight home) and pay that as well which should run about 250.00.

All in all it will cost you about 1,200.00 to get them home, as long as they aren't a protected species or taken from a protected preserve in which case you will be shut down immediately.

Good luck, they are cute.