New laws for taking endangered species on and off Island

Sat, 21 Jan 2012

The kakapo is the most endangered parrot in the world

New rules for moving endangered species on and off the Island are now in force.

Replacement legislation for moving such species came into force at the start of the year.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture says it will be issuing licences for moving endangered species.

The law is designed to make sure international trade doesn't threaten the survival of a specie.

DEFA says most importers or exporters are unlikely to notice a great change in the restrictions.

The controls include the movement of endangered species between the Isle of Man and the UK.

The law covers a wide range of species including parrots, tortoises, elephant ivory, tiger skins and orchids.

Anyone moving flora or fauna on or off the Island is advised to check if the specimens are regulated with the Department before travelling.