My Gifts Galore

Souvenirs From Across the Seas

One of my favorite things about traveling is the souvenirs I bring home.  I discovered on my first international trip recently that there are a lot of governmental regulations regarding what can be brought back into the United States in your luggage.  Check the U. S. Customs official website before your trip!  There are strict guidelines for products related in any way to wildlife, particularly involving endangered species.  Foreign or domestic law will often prohibit import or export of these items, and travelers face a fine and confiscation if you attempt to bypass the rules.  Prohibited goods include all products made from sea turtles; most types of coral, whether mounted in jewelry or loose; most crocodile or caiman leather; furs from spotted cats or marine mammals; feathers and feather products from wild birds; and all ivory, including rhinoceros tusks as well as tusks of African or Asian elephants. 

There is one notable exception that often involves the import of ivory.  Ivory may be imported into the United States if you can prove it is at least 100 years old.  You will be required to present written documentation to that authenticates the age of the item.  Other antiques containing wildlife products will have similar procedures to verify age before being approved for U. S. import, and other requirements for antiques may apply in addition to proof of age.  For specific guidelines and the most current regulations, contact the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service.