18 replies to this topic

[SuperFrank]

Restrictions on ant shipping in the U.S. exist because ants can be highly destructive and difficult to manage invasive species. However, though free movement is restricted, it is relatively easy to obtain permission to import ants not found in your state.

A PPQ 526 permit filed with the USDA's APHIS dept grants the ability to possess and transport restricted species. The application process is simple, fast and free (unlike basically every single other government form in existence) and applications get approved more commonly than one might think.

Below is a walkthrough to help guide you through the application process. This replaces my previous guide due to the new eauthentication system being implemented by the USDA.

https://docs.google....it?usp=drivesdk

Edited by SuperFrank, August 9 2020 - 7:22 AM.

[Kaelwizard]

The only thing I would ever use this for is getting Cyphomyrmex. I would want Opisthopsis, but they are in Australia which doesn’t export animals (at least not tarantulas, lizards, and such).

Edited by Kaelwizard, August 9 2020 - 1:22 PM.

[Arthroverts]

Ah, so you can do it with ants as well, good to know. I am currently PPQ 526-permitted for exotic millipedes (another permit for importing them from abroad pending), and will be applying for a permit for beetles as well here soon, but this is something I'll have to keep in mind...

 

Thanks for sharing,

 

Arthroverts

Edited by Arthroverts, August 10 2020 - 10:34 PM.

[TechAnt]

I’m not sure if I should apply for this..but it would be nice to get things like Atta perhaps..

[Swirlysnowflake]

Whoa ty

[Arthroverts]

Question to SuperFrank: were you required to establish a containment facility for these?

 

Thanks,

 

Arthroverts

[Antkid12]

Awesome.

[SuperFrank]

Question to SuperFrank: were you required to establish a containment facility for these?

Thanks,

Arthroverts

That term can vary depending on your species, I have had to show that my species are stored securely and went into detail describing the storage methods along with pictures of said methods

Edited by SuperFrank, August 11 2020 - 6:21 PM.

[SuperFrank]

I encourage anyone with questions to contact the APHIS permitting office. Far from a faceless government entity, they are a rather relaxed and friendly seeming group and I have talked with the same people on several occasions for various issues. They are always willing to help and give information.

[Arthroverts]

 

Question to SuperFrank: were you required to establish a containment facility for these?

Thanks,

Arthroverts

That term can vary depending on your species, I have had to show that my species are stored securely and went into detail describing the storage methods along with pictures of said methods

 

So in a word no, you just had to detail your enclosures and provide photos of them.

The strictness of a containment facility can vary by species, but whatever the precautions it still remains a containment facility. Doesn't sound like you had to pursue that option (thankfully).

 

Thanks,

 

Arthroverts

[SuperFrank]

Question to SuperFrank: were you required to establish a containment facility for these?

Thanks,

Arthroverts

That term can vary depending on your species, I have had to show that my species are stored securely and went into detail describing the storage methods along with pictures of said methods

So in a word no, you just had to detail your enclosures and provide photos of them.
The strictness of a containment facility can vary by species, but whatever the precautions it still remains a containment facility. Doesn't sound like you had to pursue that option (thankfully).

Thanks,

Arthroverts

I had to provide evidence that I had created secure space to contain them, sealed doors, windows, outlets, air vents, etc. The ants are stored in padlocked acrylic containers, airtight save for steel mesh screens vents. Those containers are stored in larger glass boxes, also sealed off with mesh vents. I did not have to submit to a physical inspection however.

I did not establish what I would call a "containment facility" as I merely made very minor renovations to my home office where I already store most of my animals.

Edited by SuperFrank, August 12 2020 - 3:59 AM.

[Arthroverts]

Was there a separate questionnaire however that they sent you after you had sent in the application asking for more details? I'm familiar with the process and if they did then you probably have an APHIS-certified containment facility for ants.

 

Thanks,

 

Arthroverts

[SuperFrank]

Yeah in all instances of me applying I was sent a follow up form both further questioning my statements and listing any additional conditions required of me in order to get approved As I recall for my first permit it was just additional confirmation that I would destroy the specimens once the project was over or the permit expired. For later permits for less widespread species I had additional requirements put into place.

[SuperFrank]

I just logged in to my aphis account and looked at some of my old messages and yeah it's referred to as a containment facility.

[Arthroverts]

That's what I thought. With ants its guaranteed to be a lot more stringent than with millipedes, beetles, etc. I don't know if I'd be able to make it work.

Good information though, maybe sometime in the future I can try this...

 

Thanks,

 

Arthroverts

 

P.S I'm curious as to how you have the acrylic boxes to prevent escape set up...do you have any pictures perhaps?

[SuperFrank]

I hate to admit this but I am too prideful to post pictures of my official, approved containment device. It's as I described, a small acrylic containers that is fitted with an air tight lid, (food storage container) I attached hinges and a latch to make it lockable. But the execution was sloppy and it was my first attempt at a secure formicaria. I am currently working on a much nicer one that I wouldn't mind posting pictures of, especially if/when it is approved.

The larger container it is stored in is just an empty 10 gallon aquarium fitted with a glass lid.

[SuperFrank]

I hate to admit this but I am too prideful to post pictures of my official, approved containment device. It's as I described, a small acrylic containers that is fitted with an air tight lid, (food storage container) I attached hinges and a latch to make it lockable. But the execution was sloppy and it was my first attempt at a secure formicaria. I am currently working on a much nicer one that I wouldn't mind posting pictures of, especially if/when it is approved.

The larger container it is stored in is just an empty 10 gallon aquarium fitted with a glass lid.

[AntsDakota]

Double post........

[Arthroverts]

Ha ha. It won't make me think less of you in any way if that's what you're worried about, my enclosures would probably appear rather sloppy to you as well. But hey, if it works...

I understand however. Thanks for all the information!

 

Thanks,

 

Arthroverts