Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello everyone,

I have a question which may or may not have one set answer, but I'd like to hear some opinions from my fellow snake enthusiasts.
Well, after 18 years of living and herping here in the United States, I've made the decision to emigrate to Egypt to study environmental conservation at the American University in Cairo (Yes, I do intend to continue my reptile adventures over there as well). As you can imagine, there is not much I can take along with me due to a weight limit, but I would like to bring along a few things from home to remind me of the old times. I would really like to take a big shed skin from one of my snakes, to tack up on the wall of my new dwelling place. However, when I mentioned this to a friend, he expressed concern that airport security either here or abroad would be very concerned to find a shed skin in my luggage, even if it was just crumpled up and stuffed in a ziplock bag. I think he's overreacting a little... have any of you ever flown anywhere with a shed skin in your luggage? Do you agree that there might be any concern about this? Thanks for your help!

-----
DAVE

You aren't going to have a problem with airport security as a snake skin in a plastic bag won't show up on an X-ray.

The problem you might have would be with Egyptian Customs/Agricultural Control. When they ask you on the declaration form if you are bringing in any animals or parts thereof, will you answer yes or no? If you say no, and they find it during a bag search, you could be in trouble.

I doubt they would care actually. I would probably just declare it and see if they take it from you. If so, it was worth a try. If not, you win.
-----
Chris Harrison
San Antonio, Texas

Just what I was thinking; thank you very much for your help!

-----
DAVE

Chris's advice is correct. If asked, declare it. Because it is a shed (and not a body part persay) there is a good likelyhood they will not bother with it. And if they do take it, at least you will not be in trouble over it.
-----
Mark