This is usually a sensitive topic on forums and I appoligize if this has been extensively discussed before cause I couldn't find anything.

I believe that it's everyones responsibilities to familiarize him/herself with any and all laws and legislation applicable to the hobby being practised, if any; no matter what the hobby. Now, in my interactions on this forum and in researching tarantulas in general I've picked up on some aspects regarding tarantula keeping that I would like to get clarity on and I hope someone here will be able to do that.

1. It seems we are no longer allowed to import tarantulas? From when is this and why?
2. Not being able to import limits our gene pool of the species we already have in. Any idea if our current gene pool is sustainable?
3. Is there a body or organization that is appealing on our behalf and keeping up to date with changes that our government likes to through around like old rags?
4. Are there elsewhere any special rules involved with keeping tarantulas like in the Western Cape where you apparently need special permits?
5. What does the permits you require in Western Cape entail and how easily is it obtainable?

I'll start of with these questions and see where the boat takes me on this tip of the iceberg.

Sad truths being spoken there...

Thank you for the link.

....no i am not......no....i wont be pulled in.....never.......FREEDOM!!!!!!

In my opinion...HAHA (just kidding)

lets also not forget that the laws are as old as histroy itself, there are many loop holes, so thats why i guess there is going to be a big overhaul on the laws and regulations in the future! Most of these things take time fortunatly, so we have time to adjust.

Time to stir things up a little. I heard somewhere somehow and i quote:

"Any reptile that is indigenous to South Africa (ex: Baboon Spider) is illegal to have in your possession. Any reptile not indigenous to South Africa (Ex: Mexican Fireleg) is also illegal, however once brought into South Africa, illegally or legally, it becomes a legal and nothing can be done about it."

Anyone happen to hear the same somewhere or something on those lines?

Edited: My uncle works in Brazil. He is there for 8 weeks and then here for 4 weeks. I asked if he could bring in some Tarantula's for me. He said nothing that is living or was alive (like animal skin) can be brought into South Africa, he'll be arrested at the airport once arriving.