solis ecn2013 usfws

Department of Interior Department of Interior U.S. Fish & Wildlife U.S. Fish & Wildlife

ServiceServiceOffice of Law Enforcement

US Fish & Wildlife Service 04/08/23

USFWS/OLEUSFWS/OLESpecial AgentsSpecial Agents

1811 - Criminal investigators who enforce Federal Wildlife Laws throughout the United States

Special Agents conduct law enforcement investigations: Take down major trafficking organizations via surveillance, undercover work, making arrests, and liaison with US Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

When fully staffed, USFWS, OLE has 261 Special Agents


USFWS/OLEUSFWS/OLEWildlife InspectorsWildlife Inspectors

United States is one of the world's largest markets for wildlife and wildlife products

Stationed at the Nation's major international airports, ocean ports, and border crossings, wildlife inspectors monitor an annual trade worth more than $1 billion.

They stop illegal shipments, intercept smuggled wildlife and wildlife products, and help the United States fulfill its commitment to global wildlife conservation


Air CargoAir Cargo


Border Ports of EntryBorder Ports of Entry


Seaport RailroadSeaport Railroad


WWW.FWS.GOVWWW.FWS.GOV

Go To: Importing/Exporting Navigate to find information Locate Wildlife Inspector Offices Declaration Forms Create an Account to submit declarations

electronically Benefits: FWS is aware of your shipment

immediately You eliminate the paper declaration


Does the importer require a Does the importer require a license/permit?license/permit?

Import/Export License - This permit is generally required for all individuals or businesses that engage in business as an importer or exporter of wildlife. SHOULD NOT BE AN ISSUE WITH SCIENTIFIC EXCHANGES.

BUT THIS DOES APPLY: Port Exception Permit - This permit authorizes import or

export of wildlife at a port other than a required designated port or authorized border or special port under limited circumstances. These permits may be issued (1) for scientific purposes, (2) to minimize deterioration or loss, or (3) to alleviate undue economic hardship. Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the criteria for issuance of these special permits. Apply to the Regional Office where the applicant is located.

04/08/23

Bona fide Scientific ResearchBona fide Scientific Research

50 CFR – Subpart C – 14.31 Non-designated port permit for scientific purposes

Why? Usually wildlife shipments are only permitted at Designated Wildlife Ports of Entries

Accredited Scientific Institutions do not need a FWS commercial license for obvious reasons

50 CFR – 14.62 & 14.64 – Exceptions to Import/Export Declaration Requirements: Accredited Scientist/Scientific Institutions may file a general declaration however within 180 days an amended declaration must be filed.


FWS Declaration FormFWS Declaration Form

USFWS Declaration (Form 3-177)

eDecs (electronic) or hard copy

Ensure the declaration is stamped “CLEARED”

Must be “CLEARED” before released by CBP


Import/Export Entomological Import/Export Entomological SpecimensSpecimens

Secure a trusted Shipper Determine Entry/Exit Port Contact the closest Wildlife Inspector office that

will most likely inspect shipment Fill out a Declaration Form Ensure all Permits (CITES or general Export and

Collecting Permits) are included in shipment Timing! Timing! Timing! Make sure you notify the WI of your shipment

prior to its arrival/departure (48 Hr)


Pack specimens knowing they will be inspected!!!!


Things to Keep in MindThings to Keep in Mind

It is very important to contact the FWS Wildlife Inspector Office your shipment will most likely be inspected.

www.fws.gov; Importing/Exporting; Wildlife Inspection Offices

Communicating with a WI will eliminate many concerns

WIs’ will indeed help you!


http://www.fws.gov/

Questions?Questions?Frank Solis, Senior Special Agent – USFWS/OLE1874 Grandstand Rd. San Antonio, Texas 78238(210) 681-8419 [email protected]


solis ecn2013 usfws

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