Post by exoticimports on Mar 1, 2017 13:43:35 GMT -8
The situation with Alex Bic is a perfect example of why not to try bringing specimens into the US in your luggage. The USFWS slam dunked Alex for doing it. I have heard conflicting reports regarding whether or not he had the proper paperwork. I too, am hoping to attend the LA Bug Fair at some point just to see what it is all about.
I don't know what the details are with Alex Bic, but I can tell you it is nigh impossible to PROVE legal export from the country of origin.
When I came in one time USFWS got nasty "how do I know you didn't forge this seal and signature?" Uh, right, I carry a seal/ stamp with me every where I go. "Well, we're going to call the F&W office in that country!" then I watched them pull up the contact info on their computer and laughed. I told them that office got burned down in the civil war three years ago, that woman hasn't been with the organization since then, and since they haven't paid their bills the phone doesn't work. Ohhh....you should have seen how angry USFWS can get at their own incompetence!
Another time was funny! USFWS: "This CITES certificate looks copied!" Duh, of course it is. They use a photocopier just like we do. Then they sign it- see the ink?
The funniest USFWS story though I'm saving in case I ever write my book. I guarantee you'll wet your pants laughing. It is SO funny that you could never, ever fabricate such a story.
Of course, there are un-funny stories. Like a USFWS inspector telling me I did everything right. Oh yeah, then why did the agent in charge accuse me of smuggling? Why were my specimens impounded? *silence* Do you understand why people skip all this legal crap and import unlawfully ("sigh. yes.") So why the @#&* am I the one getting harassed? *silence*