These snakes are illegal in Louisiana

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Did you know that in certain circumstances, it’s illegal to bring certain types of snakes into the state of Louisiana?

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is responsible for the management of the state of Louisiana’s wildlife and aquatic life per the Constitution of the State of Louisiana, and they take a proactive approach to guard against the introduction of invasive species in our ecosystems.

“We recognize the impacts these animals can have on native wildlife resources and will continue our efforts to conserve, manage, and protect the state’s native wildlife,” said Madison Sheahan, the Secretary of the LDWF.

The LDWF adheres to regulations concerning constricting snakes.

In only a few decades, Burmese python populations in the Everglades have severely distrupted many of Florida’s ecosystems.

Unpermitted constricting snakes that are not indigenous to Louisiana, or are venomous, are considered a threat to the state of Louisiana.

State law bans the unpermitted importation and private possession of nonindigenous constrictors in excess of eight feet in length, venomous snakes, and nonhuman primates.

There are exceptions to the rule, though, for animal sanctuaries, zoos, aquariums, wildlife research centers, scientific organizations, and medical research facilities, including but not limited to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Primate Center and the Tulane National Primate Research Center.

Some internet purchases of nonindigenous constrictors are also illegal.

Papuan pythons, Olive pythons, Carpet or Diamond pythons, Scrub pythons, Amethystine pythons, Southern African pythons, African Rock pythons, Indian or Burmese pythons, Reticulate pythons, and all species of Boa constrictors plus all species of Anacondas are only allowed under certain conditions and permits must be attained through the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Boa constrictors are not native to the United States, but they are native to other regions of the New World.

The importation of venomous snakes follows the same guidelines for any species belonging to the Pitviper or Viper families, Sea snakes, and Mole vipers.

It is illegal to import or privately possess the tree-dwelling African Dispholidus, the African Thelotornis, also known as the tree snake, or Asian Rhabdophis snakes without a permit.

There are punishments for not following state guidelines on constrictors and venomous snakes.

Don’t make a mistake and endanger Louisiana wildlife by releasing pet snakes into the wild. Know the rules.