No, owning a kangaroo as a pet in Portugal is illegal under national wildlife protection laws, specifically Decree-Law 140/99, which aligns with EU Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats. The species is classified as non-native and invasive, requiring authorization from the Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas (ICNF) for any possession, which is rarely granted. Violations may result in confiscation, fines up to €3,740, or criminal charges under Article 33 of the same decree.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in Portugal
- Prohibition under Decree-Law 140/99: Kangaroos are listed in Annex II, Part B, as species requiring strict protection. Private ownership is effectively banned without ICNF approval, which mandates proof of conservation purposes or scientific research.
- ICNF Authorization Process: Applications must demonstrate enclosure compliance with EU standards (e.g., minimum 500 m² per animal, predator-proof fencing) and veterinary oversight. Permits are typically reserved for zoos, sanctuaries, or educational institutions.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The ICNF’s draft 2026 National Biodiversity Strategy proposes stricter enforcement, including mandatory microchipping of all non-native species and penalties for unregistered possession. Existing owners must register holdings by 2027 or face immediate confiscation.
Cross-border movement requires additional permits from the Direção-Geral de Alimentação e Veterinária (DGAV), which enforces EU Regulation 318/2018 on invasive alien species. Non-compliance risks deportation of the animal to an approved facility.