No, owning a kangaroo in Germany is prohibited under the Federal Nature Conservation Act (Bundesnaturschutzgesetz) and the EU Wildlife Trade Regulation. Exotic pets like kangaroos are classified as non-domesticated species, requiring permits that are rarely granted. The 2026 amendment to the Bundesartenschutzverordnung tightens restrictions further, aligning with CITES protections.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in Germany
- Species Protection: Kangaroos are listed under Annex B of the EU Wildlife Trade Regulation, necessitating import permits from the Bundesamt für Naturschutz (BfN). Permits are issued only for scientific, conservation, or educational purposes.
- State-Level Bans: All 16 federal states enforce additional prohibitions via local wildlife protection laws. For example, Bavaria’s Artenschutzverordnung explicitly bans private ownership of marsupials.
- Zoo and Sanctuary Exemptions: Commercial breeding or private keeping is illegal unless licensed under §45 of the Bundesnaturschutzgesetz. Facilities must demonstrate conservation benefits and meet veterinary standards set by the Tierärztliche Vereinigung für Tierschutz.