Wildlife Laws in T&T
The keeping and trade of wildlife are governed by a wide range of laws in Trinidad and Tobago. You can learn more about the most important through the resources and links provided below.
Conservation of Wild Life Act of 1958
The Conservation of Wild Life Act of 1958 is the principal law governing the keeping and trade of wildlife in Trinidad and Tobago. This law and its regulations have been amended various times since its issuance. For this reason, we offer links to different versions of the law, including our campaign’s own unofficial copy that integrates the latest amendments.
Animals (Diseases, Importation, Health and Welfare) Act of 1954
The Animals (Diseases, Importation, Health and Welfare) Act of 1954 is a very important law governing issues related to wildlife trade, welfare, and biosecurity. This law was been substantially revised and expanded in scope with a supporting act that entered into force in 2021.
Environmental Management Act of 2000
The Environmental Management Act of 2000 establishes the strongest form of protection for native species deemed to be ‘environmentally sensitive species’. ESS listings have now been made for 13 species in total.
Legal Notice 123 of 2005, listing the West Indian Manatee as an ESS
Legal Notice 124 of 2005, listing the Trinidad Piping Guan as an ESS
Legal Notice 125 of 2005, listing the White-tailed Sabrewing Hummingbird as an ESS
Legal Notice 32 of 2013, listing the Golden Tree Frog as an ESS
Legal Notice 88 of 2014, listing the Leatherback Turtle as an ESS
Legal Notice 89 of 2014, listing the Loggerhead Turtle as an ESS
Legal Notice 91 of 2014, listing the Hawksbill Turtle as an ESS
Legal Notice 143 of 2018, listing the Scarlet Ibis as an ESS
Legal Notice 179 of 2022, listing the Trinidad Howler Monkey as an ESS
Legal Notice 180 of 2022, listing the Trinidad White-fronted Capuchin as an ESS