Protect Oregon's natural animals and be cautious about giving some pets as gifts.
SALEM, — According to an Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife press release issued on Wednesday, illegal wildlife trafficking thrives over the holiday season, especially with small, difficult-to-track creatures like turtles and lizards.
If you're giving a pet turtle or other animal as a gift this year, make sure the animal you pick is allowed to keep as a pet in Oregon and isn't a forbidden species. If you're not sure what species are permitted, check out the entire list of restricted species or call your local ODFW office.