The world of taxidermy collecting is thrilling, but it comes with one unavoidable responsibility: understanding the laws that govern it. Not all animal mounts are legal to buy, sell, or ship, especially across state or national borders. Knowing what's allowed and what isn't can save you from hefty fines, confiscated items, or even criminal charges.
This guide breaks down the core taxidermy laws in the U.S., international trade rules, and what buyers and sellers must do to stay compliant.
Why Are There Taxidermy Laws in the First Place?
Wildlife laws protect endangered and threatened species from exploitation. Over the decades, regulations have evolved to ensure that preserved animals especially rare, exotic, or migratory ones are not being sold in ways that promote illegal hunting or trafficking.
Taxidermy, especially vintage or imported pieces, exists at a complex intersection of art, science, and conservation.
Key U.S. Laws That Govern Taxidermy
- Prohibits trade in parts or specimens of animals listed as endangered or threatened.
- Even if an animal was mounted decades ago, its sale may still be illegal without documentation.
Tip: Pre-ban items (collected before laws went into effect) may be allowed but require proof of origin.
- Makes it illegal to possess, sell, or barter migratory birds or their parts without federal permits.
- Applies to over 1,000 North American bird species.
Legal Exception: Game birds like ducks and geese harvested legally during hunting seasons with proper licensing.
Resource: MBTABird List
- Federal law that prohibits trade in wildlife, fish, and plants that have been illegally taken, possessed, transported, or sold.
- Makes it a crime to import/export or move taxidermy specimens across state lines if they were obtained unlawfully.
International Trade Laws
CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species)
- A global agreement signed by 183 countries to regulate cross-border trade of protected species.
- Many exotic animals and reptiles require CITES permits to export/import.
- Ivory, tortoise shell, primates, and many reptiles fall under CITES restrictio
Reference: CITESSpecies Database
What’s Legal to Buy or Sell?
Red Flags for Buyers & Sellers:
- No documentation or provenance for rare/exotic species.
- Offers to ship internationally without customs clearance.
- Sellers using vague or misleading species names.
- Lack of taxidermist info, date of mount, or collection history.
If in doubt, consult your local Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or a wildlife attorney.
How to Document Legal Taxidermy?
Proper paperwork protects both buyer and seller:
- Bill of Sale: Include species, origin, and date of mount.
- Hunting Tags: Required for big game or waterfowl in some states.
- Import/Export Permits: Needed for CITES and some ESA species.
- Photographic Evidence: Shows item condition and authenticity.
Can You Ship Taxidermy?
Yes, but with caution. Domestic shipping of common mounts is typically allowed, but:
- Use licensed couriers (FedEx, UPS).
- Label packages with contents.
- Avoid shipping prohibited species or items with wildlife parts like ivory or feathers.
International shipping requires:
- CITES permits (export/import).
- Customs declarations.
- Export licenses in some cases.
Final Advice
If you're dealing in taxidermy as a buyer, seller, or collector educate yourself before every transaction. Laws vary by state and species. Ignorance is not a legal defense.
Best Practices:
- Ask for documentation and photos.
- Avoid international trades without permits.
- Research federal and state laws.
When in doubt, contact:
- U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
- State Wildlife Agencies
- CITES Management Authorities
Reference: U.S. Fish& Wildlife Permits Portal
