Info needed on Abaco shell regulations

[Kinsey]

I need to find out about Abaco laws concerning shells, i.e., which ones I can bring back to the U.S. Please let me know where I can find this information. THank you.

[HALF-A-HAMIAN]

Not sure on regulations/legislation regarding shells, but my girls filled a Kalik case, marked it "Fragile, Sea Shells", and no questions were asked and it was not inspected at MHH or PBI.

[BahamaAngie]

I had no problems bringing seashells back. My husband collected sooooo many that I was carrying them onto the planes. My knees hurt so bad that one of the airport attendants gave me a wheelchair because I looked like I was going to drop. I had like 2 bags of carry on seashells. Did not repeat that this year!!!!

[chestnc]

One of the Bahamians told me the first time I was there you are allowed to take whatever sea shells you see or want. I brought home 5 large conch shells and as BahamaAngie said, they were heavy. I put them in my checked luggage wrapped in cloth and they were okay.I have them displayed in my home and one is in my office at work.

[CarolP]

If you are returning by boat do NOT take queen conch shells with you. They are protected in the US, even if you got them in the Bahamas. I don't think you have a problem if you are flying back. You did not ask, but Bahamian law prohibits taking starfish. This is a little know but often enforced law. Besides they tend to stink and rot and you really do not want them. I would be hesitant to take sea fans, even if washed up on the beach.

[Kinsey]

Thank you all so very much for replying with such thorough information. I feel much better about what I can and cannot do. Take care.

[BahamaAngie]

We took sea fans also that we found on the beach. Made sure they were dry and wrapped them up well and are now proudly displayed. They are so pretty. Once we found one in Cozumel and our friend has it in his fish tank.