PETS: Other pets
The EU Regulation on the movement of pet animals also covers birds (except certain poultry), ornamental tropical fish, invertebrates (except bees and crustaceans), amphibians and reptiles. The rules for the movement of these species between EU countries, and into the EU, have not yet been set by the European Commission. To bring these animals into the UK they must meet either national import rules or the general rules for trade in the animal species.Further information on import licences for birds and guidance on the import of invertebrates, amphibians and reptiles is available online, or you can e-mail AHITChelmsford@animalhealth.gsi.gov.uk
Animals covered by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) remain subject to the provisions of Council Regulation 338/97 on the protection of species of wild fauna and flora.
To export live animals, products derived from animals and genetic material (semen, ova, embryos and hatching eggs) to countries outside the EU you will need to ensure that you comply with the import regulations of the destination country. In many cases the importing country may require that the animals or products are accompanied by an official export health certificate issued by Defra and signed by an authorised Official Veterinarian. Export health certificates may also be required for certain movements to Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands.
Page last modified: May 8, 2009