Is Keeping Roadkill Legal in Argentina After the 2026 Framework Overhaul?

Yes, keeping roadkill in Argentina is generally permitted under specific conditions, primarily governed by provincial wildlife laws and the National Wildlife Law (Ley Nacional 22.421). While federal law does not explicitly prohibit possession of dead wildlife, provincial regulations often require permits for collection, transport, or use. The Secretaría de Ambiente y Desarrollo Sustentable (SAyDS) and provincial environmental agencies enforce these rules, with recent 2024 amendments tightening oversight on species listed under CITES or provincial endangered lists.

Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Argentina

  • Permit Requirements: Most provinces mandate a Permiso de Aprovechamiento from local wildlife agencies (e.g., Buenos Aires’ Dirección de Fauna) for species not protected under national law. Roadkill of native fauna like Lama guanicoe (guanaco) or Rhea americana (ñandú) often requires prior authorization.
  • Species Restrictions: Protected species (e.g., Jaguar Panthera onca) under Ley 22.421 or provincial decrees cannot be kept without a conservation exemption. Domestic animals (e.g., livestock) fall under municipal regulations, not wildlife laws.
  • Transport and Use: Transporting carcasses across provincial borders requires a Certificado Sanitario from SENASA (National Animal Health Service) to prevent disease spread. Use for personal consumption or taxidermy may trigger additional municipal or provincial permits.

Non-compliance risks fines up to ARS 1.5 million (2026 adjusted penalties) or confiscation under Ley 24.344 (Environmental Crimes). Always verify local ordinances, as Buenos Aires City and Córdoba Province impose stricter rules than rural jurisdictions.