The Territorial Command of Madeira, through the Nature and Environment Protection Section (SEPNA) and the Funchal Airport Tax Office, on the 4th of July, seized two ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) for “irregular introduction of companion animals of specimens included in the Regional List of Invasive Species in the Autonomous Region of Madeira, at Madeira International Airport.”
According to a statement from the GNR, the action took place in coordination with the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) and led to the preparation of an administrative offence notice for irregular introduction of pets of specimens included in the Regional List of Invasive Species in the Autonomous Region of Madeira, and the identification of the suspect, a 48-year-old woman who was travelling from Frankfurt, Germany.
The identified company was notified to regularise the situation with the IFCN within 48 hours, and was appointed as the trustee of the seized mammals.
“The GNR warns that the introduction of certain specimens of exotic animal species in the Autonomous Region of Madeira requires the necessary authorisations, regulated by Regional Legislative Decree No. 17/2023/M of April 11, in its current wording, so citizens should request the necessary clarifications from the competent regional entities for this purpose, namely the (IFCN), if they intend to introduce in this Autonomous Region, specimens of exotic species of fauna or flora.”
The National Republican Guard, through the Service for the Protection of Nature and the Environment (SEPNA), points out that “its daily concern is the protection of animals, calling for the denunciation of any situations of mistreatment or abandonment.” For this purpose, the SOS Environment and Territory Line (808 200 520) may be used, operating permanently to report infractions or clarify concerns.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
