UPDATE: USDA Restrictions on Avian Products Imports from Australia

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) was recently confirmed in Australia  

 

In response, the USDA has restrictions in place for importing bird and poultry products from Australia. The restrictions require that avian products, including bird trophies, be accompanied by a Veterinary Services (VS) import permit. These products must be processed to inactivate the HPAI virus prior to importation. 

 

Unprocessed hunter-harvested game bird meat for human consumption is prohibited. Processed hunter-harvested game bird meat—weighing 50 pounds or more—may be imported for human consumption if certified as thoroughly cooked reaching a minimum internal temperature of 74 degrees C (165 degrees F). Certification of cooking temperature is not required if the meat has a thoroughly cooked appearance, is for personal consumption, and weighs less than 50 pounds.

 

While these restrictions also apply to bird trophies, unprocessed bird trophies may be consigned to a USDA-approved establishment for processing (mounting) if accompanied by a VS import permit. There is an exception for fully taxidermy finished bird trophies (i.e., mounted) which will continue to have unrestricted entry.

 

Travelers from Australia entering the United States may contact the National Center for Import and Export at 301-851-3300, press the number 5, and speak with a staff import veterinary officer for more information regarding these restrictions. Inquiries may also be made via email to: askNCIE.Products@aphis.usda.gov.

 

 

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