Alabama Regulations on Wild and Exotic Felines

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
64 N Union St.
Montgomery, AL 36104
205-242-3467

State Web Site: http://www.alabama.gov
Department Web Site: http://www.dcnr.state.al.us/agfd/restrictedanimals.html
Possession of Wildlife for Public Exhibition Purposes: http://alisdb.legislature.state.al.us/acas/ACASLogin.asp

Short Summary: Bobcats and Cougars are not allowed to be imported into the state, transported within the state (except for licensed game breeders), and future possession permits to keep these species will not be issued (as of March, 2003). Accredited educational facilities, research facilities, and permitted rehabilitation facilities shall be exempt from this regulation through the written permission of the Director of the Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries or his designee. Previous owners that already have permits will be grand fathered, but breeding is prohibited. Also issues permits for the public exhibition of wildlife. Carnivals, zoos, circuses, and other like shows and exhibits where ample provision is made so the birds, animals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish will not escape or be released in this state are permitted. Applications require statement regarding person education and experience, description of facilities, number of species desired, and signed agreement that recommended standards for wildlife exhibition will be adhered to.
updated 5-16-03