The Importation of Ratites and Hatching Eggs of Ratites

We are amending the animal import regulations to relieve certain restrictions on the importation of ratites and hatching eggs of ratites into the United States from Canada. We believe that these actions can be taken without increasing the risk of introducing poultry or livestock diseases into the United States. Additionally, we are allowing adult ostriches from any country to be imported, in accordance with the regulations, through the New York Animal Import Center, based on space availability. Currently, with certain exceptions, ostriches may not be imported into the United States if they exceed either 36 inches in height or 30 pounds in weight. We are making this change after determining that the New York Animal Import Center has the facilities and trained personnel to handle adult ostriches. We believe that these amendments will facilitate the importation into the United States of ratites and hatching eggs of ratites while ensuring the continued protection of the health of livestock and poultry in the United States.