Reptile & Amphibian Forums

A friend of mine from AZ came into town and wanted to buy 2 and keep them as pets. But are they only illegal to sell and what are the chances of her being able to fly them across the country as carry on? They're living in a plastic holder thingy they come in.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks

PS: thank to all for the help with mine they are not only happier but healthier to

They are only illegal to buy not to own, but I wouldn't try to fly with them, I had a fish confiscated frlom me once at the airport and it was very tramatic. The airline official told me that "Only dogs, cats and monkeys are allowed on airplanes". Anyway, she can always ship them overnight, that is how I got my baby sliders.
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Here is what I found on the 4 in law... I understand that it is only unlawfull to sell them if you are associated with a business? But that it is not in anyway unlawful to own them. I dont know for sure but this is supposed to be a copy of the law? Read it and see what you think. Four Inch Turtle Law
The sale or commercial distribution of viable turtle eggs and small turtles (carapace length less than 4 inches) for use as pets is banned under 21 CFR 1240.62. The ban is based on the Public Health Service Act (section 361, 58 Stat. 703) and therefore applies to both intrastate and interstate sale and distribution.
Exceptions to the ban under 21 CFR 1240.62 permit sales of turtles and turtle eggs for use in bona fide scientific, educational, or exhibition purposes other than as pets and of marine (ocean) turtles. Other exceptions to the ban are the sale of turtles and turtle eggs not in connection with a business (e.g., limited sales between turtle fanciers have been permitted) or that are intended for export.
The ban applies to small turtles (under 4 inch carapace length) because these are most likely to be held for sale as children's pets, and the purpose of the ban is to protect children from turtle-born salmonellosis.

This information sheet has been written and provided as a courtesy by Silver City Serpentarium, Inc. 10/10/02

I agree about the shipping, just overnight them to your destination and they should be fine. This is how most turtles travel anyway, even the ones in pet stores, they have to come from somewhere.
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Slow and Steady wins the race...

Correct, as long as you don't report the income to uncle sam, I supposed you could sell them to "hobbyists" and not get in trouble. It isn't a law enforced very often. In NJ where I live it is illegal to sell any turtle of any size, so you don't see them anywhere.
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