Wild

[ArachKnight]

Are there currently any federal laws protecting the collection of spiders within the U.S.? Other than the protected spiders which fall under CITES and Endangered/Threatened species lists? If yes does anybody know of any? If no, are there any state laws restricting spider collection or possesion?

Thanks for the help
Joel

 

[Jesse607]

As far as I know, it is illegal to collect them(and anything else), from national and state(maybe not all states?) parks, or federally protected lands.

 

[Wade]

I don't know of any laws that protect spiders specifically, most of the time it's just a ban on all animal collecting in given areas like in Jeezzy's examples.

It is often possible to get collection permits for government land. National parks are going to be tough or impossible, but areas designated as National Forests are easier. State regs are going to vary state by state. In my state, some parks will give you permission to collect invertebrates if you're doing it as part of scientific research. In the state forests, however, all you have to do is write them and ask for permission and they'll usually give it. Remember, on alot of government land is open to public use. If they're going to allow hunters and fishermen, why not bug collectors?

Wade

 

[Spiderfoot]

Good point Wade
Here in Texas some of our National Parks make you get a permit to collect anything. Not even a leaf can be taken. I don't want to play devils advocate but... If you don't get caught with the specimen you havent broken any laws, Right?

 

[ArachKnight]

Cool

You've all been very helpful with the info. Thanks.