Can I legally take washed up coral from Mexico to the USA?

Can I legally take washed up coral from Mexico to the USA? - Unrecognizable man holding wallet with money

I am on vacation in Mexico, and we have found lots of dead coral washed up on the shore. We would like to take some home as souvenirs, but we are not sure about the legality of doing so, for both of the countries concerned. I believe that the beach is federal property (maybe they all are).

The answers that I've found so far have been differing opinions from various travel forums, many of which were not specific to the countries I'm considering. The only post that was helpful was ten years old and contained a dead link to the reference material. I'm hoping to find something definitive.






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Can I bring coral from Mexico to USA?

Most coral, whether in chunks or in jewelry Without knowing the exact beach, there's no way to be specific, though it is almost certain in any sanctuary or preserves. It might be worth mentioning why coral isn't permitted to be brought back, but most shells are.

Can I bring coral to USA?

Live corals in water and a clear transparent container are allowed after inspection by the TSA officer.

Is it illegal to take washed up coral?

No. Taking anything out of a National Park is against the law anywhere in the United States, and that includes lava rocks from Hawaii.

Can you take dead coral on an airplane?

You can not take corals in carry on luggage.



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