No, ferret ownership in Argentina is prohibited under the National Wildlife Law 22421 and its 2023 amendments, classifying them as non-native invasive species. The Secretaría de Ambiente y Desarrollo Sustentable (SAyDS) enforces a blanket ban, citing ecological risks to native fauna. Exceptions require permits from the Dirección Nacional de Fauna Silvestre, but these are rarely granted for pet ownership.
Key Regulations for Owning a Ferret in Argentina
- National Wildlife Law 22421: Explicitly prohibits the possession, breeding, or trade of ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) as invasive species.
- SAyDS Enforcement: The Secretaría de Ambiente y Desarrollo Sustentable actively monitors compliance, with penalties including fines up to ARS 1,000,000 and confiscation.
- Provincial Variations: Some provinces (e.g., Buenos Aires) impose additional restrictions via local wildlife decrees, aligning with federal mandates.
Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize stricter border controls, including mandatory veterinary inspections for imported pets. Ferrets detected during customs checks face immediate quarantine and deportation. The only legal pathway involves scientific research under a SAyDS-approved protocol, which excludes private ownership.