Can you obtain a permit to own tarantulas in Maine? If so who would I contact?
Full Question:
Answer:
Questions regarding domestic animals, or about the pet shop license itself, should be addressed to the Department of Agriculture, Food & Rural Resources, Division of Regulations, Animal Welfare Unit, Station #28, Augusta, ME 04333. (207) 287-3846.
Questions regarding the importation of fish or wildlife, and about the unrestricted species list for importing wildlife, should be addressed to Warden Service, 284 State Street, 41 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0041.
The following is from http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/me.html:
UNRESTRICTED
FISH AND WILDLIFE SPECIES
2002
Listed Species: The following species of tropical fish, aquatics and wildlife do not require an importation permit, and can be traded by commercial pet shops, pursuant to Title 12 MRSA 7237, and 7377 and Regulations Chapter 2.3 and 7.60: Acceptable species of tropical fish and wildlife that may be imported without an importation permit shall be designated by the Commissioner, a list of which shall be maintained and made available by the Department. The acceptability of such species to be imported or possessed shall be based on an informed determination by the Commissioner that the species will not cause an unreasonable risk to indigenous species, or their habitats, or pose other dangers to the natural community, in captivity or if accidentally or intentionally released into the wild.
Reminder: A Wildlife or Fish Importation permit is STILL required for any species which is not listed herein as Unrestricted by the Commissioner. The list is updated annually on January 1st. Please check for species that may be added or deleted from the list.
Added this year: Spotted Fire Eel, Lemon Tetra
Deleted this year:
Addition of Species: Any species of fish or wildlife can be considered for addition to this list by submitting a request with sufficient documentation to the Warden Service Permit Office by September for the next annual publication.
Many species have already been considered and rejected. Among these are tarantulas and snails. Tarantulas - All are restricted, but certain species may be approved under a special importation permit for individuals (not for petshop trade).
