Wildlife campaigners are always telling us to make sure the souvenirs we bring back from holiday were made without causing injury or death to rare or endangered animals.0:05
But what does that mean?0:16
In the studio with us today, to tell us exactly what we are and aren't allowed to bring back home with us, we have customs officer Ian Bridges.0:18
Ian, welcome to the programme.0:27
This summer season, a record number of British tourists are expected to head to various countries, including some very exotic locations.0:30
What sort of things do they typically bring back as souvenirs?0:39
Well, thankfully, most tourists are very careful about what they bring back with them.0:43
In most cases, the souvenirs they buy aren't harmful, such as the typical Mexican sombrero hat or some castanets.0:46
All good fun and certainly nothing cruel to animals.0:53
What about illegal items?0:56
Although some illegal items are brought in by smugglers for profit, many items are brought back by holidaymakers as souvenirs.0:59
You mean they don't know that what they have brought back is illegal?1:06
All too often, weird and wonderful goods bought by tourists have to be confiscated by the likes of myself.1:10
People get quite upset when you tell them they have to give up their souvenirs, but it's either that or pay a fine.1:16
In serious cases, people may even face a prison sentence.1:22
What kinds of things are we prohibited from bringing into the country?1:26
Things like ivory carvings, many types of fur, coral jewellery, feathers from protected species or bags, belts and shoes made from certain animal skins.1:30
It depends on the country of origin.1:40
So how does the traveller know what is and what isn't allowed?1:42
You should avoid buying any questionable animal or plant products which might endanger rare species or damage the environment.1:46
That include snakeskin or crocodile handbags and lizard skin wallets.1:53
We all love going abroad and bringing home souvenir of the places we visit.1:57
But we have a duty not to destroy what we have gone to see.2:01
If you are in doubt, it's best not to buy anything.2:04
How can people become better informed?2:07
There are a variety of ways that we are using to educate people about what they should or shouldn't buy.2:10
For instance, there is a guide for travellers which you can obtain by contacting the Customs and Excise Advice Service free of charge.2:15
Also, you can always ask the travel company you are booking with to give you information.2:22
But obviously more needs to be done to educate the public.2:26
The World Wildlife Fund has been working hard in recent years, for example, by showing exhibitions of seized souvenirs in various cities around the uk.2:31
Souvenir alert leaflets are distributed at international airports, and there are special luggage labels that show images of rare and endangered species.2:40
Do many tourists smuggle in live animals?2:49
You would be surprised what people try to get away with.2:52
There have been cases where a live snake has been worn like a belt, or live birds eggs have been brought in using specially made vests with pouches.2:55
Sadly, not all live animals survive the journey they make.3:02
However, when illegal animals are seized and are still alive, they are sent to a holding center.3:06
They are kept as evidence in future court cases, and most are then found homes in zoos.3:10
What should we do if we suspect any illegal wildlife trade?3:16
You can report it to our hotline at 014-834-261-1121.3:20
That's 01483-422-61121.3:27
Thank you for inviting me.3:34
It's been a pleasure.3:36
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