Fish and Wildlife service [FWS] recently updated the policies for replacing lost bird permits. This applies to both CITES & WBCA permits.
If your bird permit was approved but never received in the mail, or you had a Certificate of Origin and customs misplaced it – then you need to read this. Replacing a lost bird permit can take upto 2 months unless you know how to send in the proper documents.
You will need to file a 3-200-66 lost permit form and a 3-200-46 Section E. The 3-200-46 deals with import/export of birds and would be the same information as on your original permit application.
Some people use for 3-200-64 for Certificate of Origin if they travel back and forth from the USA several times within a 3 year period. Always make sure you get the original stamped CITES back from customs. 3-200-64: Certificate of Ownership for Personally Owned Wildlife “Pet Passport” under CITES | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (fws.gov)
The new process ask for the permit holder of the lost bird permit to send in a notorized letter as detailed below:
1. Applicant must provide a written statement explaining the circumstances and clarify the purpose of the request. Basically how and when was the lost bird permit discovered.
2. Please fill out the correct application form 3-200-66 and submit in a pdf. (see the attached application form)
3. Please provide a notarized statement if found that you will submit to USFWS, see the below questions 7.
7. If the shipment has not occurred and the original permit no longer exists, submit a signed, dated, and notarized statement that:
a. Refers to the permit number and describes the circumstances that resulted in the loss or destruction of the original permit;
b. Includes a statement that affirms the shipment did not occur;
c. You are requesting a replacement U.S. CITES permit;
d. If found, the original permit will be returned to the Division of Management Authority.
What is the difference between WBCA and CITES?
When it comes to wildlife permits, there are two key frameworks to consider: the Wild Bird Conservation Act (WBCA) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Let’s explore the differences:
- WBCA (Wild Bird Conservation Act):
- The WBCA focuses specifically on the conservation of wild birds.
- It regulates the import, export, and re-export of certain bird species.
- If you’re dealing with protected bird species, you’ll need a WBCA permit.
- For example, if you plan to travel with your pet bird internationally, you’ll need to comply with WBCA requirements and obtain a permit1.
- CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora):
- CITES is a broader international treaty that covers a wide range of endangered species, not just birds.
- It aims to ensure that international trade does not threaten the survival of species.
- If you’re dealing with any wildlife species listed under CITES (including both animals and plants), you’ll need a CITES permit.
- CITES permits are required for both commercial and non-commercial activities involving these species.
- When exporting CITES-listed species, you’ll need to provide evidence of a valid CITES import permit from the country of destination2.
In summary, if you’re dealing with birds, especially pet birds, pay attention to the WBCA requirements. For broader wildlife species, including endangered animals and plants, adhere to CITES regulations. Always obtain the necessary permits to ensure legal compliance when handling wildlife across borders.
Airborne Animals is happy to assist you with obtaining all the proper permits. Shipping Birds | Birds Cargo Service | Airborne Animals