---
kind: "section"
citation: "16 U.S.C. § 1539"
title: "16"
title_heading: "Conservation"
number: "1539"
heading: "Exceptions"
release: "119-102"
date: "2026-07-12"
url: "https://uscodex.org/usc/16/1539"
units:
  - "Chapter 35 — Endangered Species"
---

# §1539. Exceptions

- (a) **Permits—**
  - (1) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may permit, under such terms and conditions as he shall prescribe—
    - (A) any act otherwise prohibited by [section 1538 of this title](/usc/16/1538.md) for scientific purposes or to enhance the propagation or survival of the affected [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16), including, but not limited to, acts necessary for the establishment and maintenance of experimental populations pursuant to [subsection (j)](#j); or
    - (B) any [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) otherwise prohibited by [section 1538(a)(1)(B) of this title](/usc/16/1538.md?p=a-1-B) if such [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) is incidental to, and not the purpose of, the carrying out of an otherwise lawful activity.
  - (2)
    - (A) No permit may be issued by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) authorizing any [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) referred to in [paragraph (1)(B)](#a-1-B) unless the applicant therefor submits to the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) a [conservation](/usc/16/1532.md?p=3) plan that specifies—
      - (i) the impact which will likely result from such [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18);
      - (ii) what steps the applicant will [take](/usc/16/1532.md?p=19) to minimize and mitigate such impacts, and the funding that will be available to implement such steps;
      - (iii) what alternative actions to such [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) the applicant considered and the reasons why such alternatives are not being utilized; and
      - (iv) such other measures that the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may require as being necessary or appropriate for purposes of the plan.
    - (B) If the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) finds, after opportunity for public comment, with respect to a permit application and the related [conservation](/usc/16/1532.md?p=3) plan that—
      - (i) the [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) will be incidental;
      - (ii) the applicant will, to the maximum extent practicable, minimize and mitigate the impacts of such [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18);
      - (iii) the applicant will ensure that adequate funding for the plan will be provided;
      - (iv) the [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) will not appreciably reduce the likelihood of the survival and recovery of the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) in the wild; and
      - (v) the measures, if any, required under [subparagraph (A)(iv)](#a-2-A-iv) will be met;

      and he has received such other assurances as he may require that the plan will be implemented, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall issue the permit. The permit shall contain such terms and conditions as the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) deems necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this paragraph, including, but not limited to, such reporting requirements as the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) deems necessary for determining whether such terms and conditions are being complied with.

    - (C) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall revoke a permit issued under this paragraph if he finds that the permittee is not complying with the terms and conditions of the permit.
- (b) **Hardship exemptions—**
  - (1) If any [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) enters into a contract with respect to a [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) of [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) or [plant](/usc/16/1532.md?p=14) before the date of the publication in the Federal Register of notice of consideration of that [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) as an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) and the subsequent listing of that [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) as an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) pursuant to [section 1533 of this title](/usc/16/1533.md) will cause undue economic hardship to such [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) under the contract, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15), in order to minimize such hardship, may exempt such [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) from the application of [section 1538(a) of this title](/usc/16/1538.md?p=a) to the extent the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) deems appropriate if such [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) applies to him for such exemption and includes with such application such information as the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may require to prove such hardship; except that (A) no such exemption shall be for a duration of more than one year from the date of publication in the Federal Register of notice of consideration of the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) concerned, or shall apply to a quantity of [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) or [plants](/usc/16/1532.md?p=14) in excess of that specified by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15); (B) the one-year period for those [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) of [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) listed by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) as endangered prior to December 28, 1973, shall expire in accordance with the terms of section 668cc–3[^1] of this title; and (C) no such exemption may be granted for the importation or exportation of a specimen listed in Appendix I of the [Convention](/usc/16/1532.md?p=4) which is to be used in a [commercial activity](/usc/16/1532.md?p=2).
  - (2) As used in this subsection, the term “undue economic hardship” shall include, but not be limited to:
    - (A) substantial economic loss resulting from inability caused by this chapter to perform contracts with respect to [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) of [fish and wildlife](/usc/16/3102.md?p=17) entered into prior to the date of publication in the Federal Register of a notice of consideration of such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) as an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6);
    - (B) substantial economic loss to [persons](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) who, for the year prior to the notice of consideration of such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) as an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6), derived a substantial portion of their income from the lawful [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) of any listed [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16), which [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) would be made unlawful under this chapter; or
    - (C) curtailment of subsistence [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) made unlawful under this chapter by [persons](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) (i) not reasonably able to secure other sources of subsistence; and (ii) dependent to a substantial extent upon hunting and fishing for subsistence; and (iii) who must engage in such curtailed [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) for subsistence purposes.
  - (3) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may make further requirements for a showing of undue economic hardship as he deems fit. Exceptions granted under this section may be limited by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) in his discretion as to time, [area](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=1-A), or other factor of applicability.
- (c) **Notice and review—** The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall publish notice in the Federal Register of each application for an exemption or permit which is made under this section. Each notice shall invite the submission from interested parties, within thirty days after the date of the notice, of written data, views, or arguments with respect to the application; except that such thirty-day period may be waived by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) in an emergency situation where the health or life of an endangered animal is threatened and no reasonable alternative is available to the applicant, but notice of any such waiver shall be published by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) in the Federal Register within ten days following the issuance of the exemption or permit. Information received by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) as a part of any application shall be available to the public as a matter of public record at every stage of the proceeding.
- (d) **Permit and exemption policy—** The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may grant exceptions under subsections [(a)(1)(A)](#a-1-A) and [(b)](#b) of this section only if he finds and publishes his finding in the Federal Register that (1) such exceptions were applied for in good faith, (2) if granted and exercised will not operate to the disadvantage of such [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6), and (3) will be consistent with the purposes and policy set forth in [section 1531 of this title](/usc/16/1531.md).
- (e) **Alaska natives—**
  - (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection the provisions of this chapter shall not apply with respect to the [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) of any [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20), or the importation of any such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) taken pursuant to this section, by—
    - (A) any Indian, Aleut, or Eskimo who is an Alaskan [Native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) who resides in Alaska; or
    - (B) any non-[native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) permanent resident of an Alaskan [native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) village;

    if such [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) is primarily for subsistence purposes. Non-edible byproducts of [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) taken pursuant to this section may be sold in interstate commerce when made into authentic [native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) articles of handicrafts and clothing; except that the provisions of this subsection shall not apply to any non-[native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) resident of an Alaskan [native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) village found by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) to be not primarily dependent upon the [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) of [fish and wildlife](/usc/16/3102.md?p=17) for consumption or for the creation and sale of authentic [native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) articles of handicrafts and clothing.

  - (2) Any [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) under this subsection may not be accomplished in a wasteful manner.
  - (3) As used in this subsection—
    - (i) The term “subsistence” includes selling any edible portion of [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) in [native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) villages and towns in Alaska for [native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) consumption within [native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) villages or towns; and
    - (ii) The term “authentic [native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) articles of handicrafts and clothing” means items composed wholly or in some significant respect of natural materials, and which are produced, decorated, or fashioned in the exercise of traditional [native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) handicrafts without the use of pantographs, multiple carvers, or other mass copying devices. Traditional [native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) handicrafts include, but are not limited to, weaving, carving, stitching, sewing, lacing, beading, drawing, and painting.
  - (4) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (1) of this subsection, whenever the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) determines that any [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) of [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) which is subject to [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) under the provisions of this subsection is an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20), and that such [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) materially and negatively affects the threatened or [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6), he may prescribe regulations upon the [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) of such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) by any such Indian, Aleut, Eskimo, or non-[Native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) Alaskan resident of an Alaskan [native](/usc/16/3102.md?p=16) village. Such regulations may be established with reference to [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16), geographical description of the [area](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=1-A) included, the season for [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18), or any other factors related to the reason for establishing such regulations and consistent with the policy of this chapter. Such regulations shall be prescribed after a notice and hearings in the affected judicial districts of Alaska and as otherwise required by [section 1373 of this title](/usc/16/1373.md), and shall be removed as soon as the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) determines that the need for their impositions has disappeared.
- (f) **Pre-Act endangered species parts exemption; application and certification; regulation; validity of sales contract; separability; renewal of exemption; expiration of renewal certification—**
  - (1) As used in this subsection—
    - (A) The term “pre-Act [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) part” means—
      - (i) any sperm whale oil, including derivatives thereof, which was lawfully held within the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21) on December 28, 1973, in the course of a [commercial activity](/usc/16/1532.md?p=2); or
      - (ii) any finished scrimshaw product, if such product or the raw material for such product was lawfully held within the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21) on December 28, 1973, in the course of a [commercial activity](/usc/16/1532.md?p=2).
    - (B) The term “scrimshaw product” means any art form which involves the substantial etching or engraving of designs upon, or the substantial carving of figures, patterns, or designs from, any bone or tooth of any marine mammal of the order Cetacea. For purposes of this subsection, polishing or the adding of minor superficial markings does not constitute substantial etching, engraving, or carving.
  - (2) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15), pursuant to the provisions of this subsection, may exempt, if such exemption is not in [violation](/usc/16/620e.md?p=11) of the [Convention](/usc/16/1532.md?p=4), any pre-Act [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) part from one or more of the following prohibitions:
    - (A) The prohibition on exportation from the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21) set forth in [section 1538(a)(1)(A) of this title](/usc/16/1538.md?p=a-1-A).
    - (B) Any prohibition set forth in [section 1538(a)(1)(E)](/usc/16/1538.md?p=a-1-E) or (F) of this title.
  - (3) Any [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) seeking an exemption described in paragraph (2) of this subsection shall make application therefor to the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) in such form and manner as he shall prescribe, but no such application may be considered by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) unless the application—
    - (A) is received by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) before the close of the one-year period beginning on the date on which regulations promulgated by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) to carry out this subsection first [take](/usc/16/1532.md?p=19) effect;
    - (B) contains a complete and detailed inventory of all pre-Act [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) parts for which the applicant seeks exemption;
    - (C) is accompanied by such documentation as the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may require to prove that any [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) part or product claimed by the applicant to be a pre-Act [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) part is in fact such a part; and
    - (D) contains such other information as the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) deems necessary and appropriate to carry out the purposes of this subsection.
  - (4) If the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) approves any application for exemption made under this subsection, he shall issue to the applicant a certificate of exemption which shall specify—
    - (A) any prohibition in [section 1538(a) of this title](/usc/16/1538.md?p=a) which is exempted;
    - (B) the pre-Act [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) parts to which the exemption applies;
    - (C) the period of time during which the exemption is in effect, but no exemption made under this subsection shall have force and effect after the close of the three-year period beginning on the date of issuance of the certificate unless such exemption is renewed under [paragraph (8)](#f-8); and
    - (D) any term or condition prescribed pursuant to paragraph [(5)(A)](#f-5-A) or (B), or both, which the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) deems necessary or appropriate.
  - (5) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall prescribe such regulations as he deems necessary and appropriate to carry out the purposes of this subsection. Such regulations may set forth—
    - (A) terms and conditions which may be imposed on applicants for exemptions under this subsection (including, but not limited to, requirements that applicants register inventories, keep complete sales records, permit duly authorized agents of the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) to inspect such inventories and records, and periodically file appropriate reports with the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15)); and
    - (B) terms and conditions which may be imposed on any subsequent purchaser of any pre-Act [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) part covered by an exemption granted under this subsection;

    to insure that any such part so exempted is adequately accounted for and not disposed of contrary to the provisions of this chapter. No regulation prescribed by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) to carry out the purposes of this subsection shall be subject to [section 1533(f)(2)(A)(i) of this title](/usc/16/1533.md).

  - (6)
    - (A) Any contract for the sale of pre-Act [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) parts which is entered into by the [Administrator](/usc/16/450rr–1.md?p=a) of General Services prior to the effective date of this subsection and pursuant to the notice published in the Federal Register on January 9, 1973, shall not be rendered invalid by virtue of the fact that fulfillment of such contract may be prohibited under [section 1538(a)(1)(F) of this title](/usc/16/1538.md?p=a-1-F).
    - (B) In the event that this paragraph is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this chapter, including the remainder of this subsection, shall not be affected.
  - (7) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to—
    - (A) exonerate any [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) from any act committed in [violation](/usc/16/620e.md?p=11) of paragraphs (1)(A), (1)(E), or (1)(F) of [section 1538(a) of this title](/usc/16/1538.md?p=a) prior to July 12, 1976; or
    - (B) immunize any [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) from prosecution for any such act.
  - (8)
    - (A)
      - (i) [^2] Any valid certificate of exemption which was renewed after October 13, 1982, and was in effect on March 31, 1988, shall be deemed to be renewed for a six-month period beginning on October 7, 1988. Any [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) holding such a certificate may apply to the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) for one additional renewal of such certificate for a period not to exceed 5 years beginning on October 7, 1988.
    - (B) If the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) approves any application for renewal of an exemption under this paragraph, he shall issue to the applicant a certificate of renewal of such exemption which shall provide that all terms, conditions, prohibitions, and other regulations made applicable by the previous certificate shall remain in effect during the period of the renewal.
    - (C) No exemption or renewal of such exemption made under this subsection shall have force and effect after the expiration date of the certificate of renewal of such exemption issued under this paragraph.
    - (D) No [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) may, after January 31, 1984, sell or offer for sale in interstate or [foreign commerce](/usc/16/1532.md?p=9), any pre-Act finished scrimshaw product unless such [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) holds a valid certificate of exemption issued by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) under this subsection, and unless such product or the raw material for such product was held by such [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) on October 13, 1982.
- (g) **Burden of proof—** In connection with any action alleging a [violation](/usc/16/620e.md?p=11) of [section 1538 of this title](/usc/16/1538.md), any [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) claiming the benefit of any exemption or permit under this chapter shall have the burden of proving that the exemption or permit is applicable, has been granted, and was valid and in force at the time of the alleged [violation](/usc/16/620e.md?p=11).
- (h) **Certain antique articles; importation; port designation; application for return of articles—**
  - (1) Sections [1533(d)](/usc/16/1533.md?p=d) and [1538(a)](/usc/16/1538.md?p=a) and (c) of this title do not apply to any article which—
    - (A) is not less than 100 years of age;
    - (B) is composed in whole or in part of any [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) listed under [section 1533 of this title](/usc/16/1533.md);
    - (C) has not been repaired or modified with any part of any such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) on or after December 28, 1973; and
    - (D) is entered at a port designated under [paragraph (3)](#h-3).
  - (2) Any [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) who wishes to [import](/usc/16/1532.md?p=10) an article under the exception provided by this subsection shall submit to the customs officer concerned at the time of entry of the article such documentation as the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of the Treasury, after consultation with the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of the Interior, shall by regulation require as being necessary to establish that the article meets the requirements set forth in paragraph [(1)(A)](#h-1-A), (B), and (C).
  - (3) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of the Treasury, after consultation with the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of the Interior, shall designate one port within each customs region at which articles described in paragraph [(1)(A)](#h-1-A), (B), and (C) must be entered into the customs territory of the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21).
  - (4) Any [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) who imported, after December 27, 1973, and on or before November 10, 1978, any article described in [paragraph (1)](#h-1) which—
    - (A) was not repaired or modified after the date of importation with any part of any [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) listed under [section 1533 of this title](/usc/16/1533.md);
    - (B) was forfeited to the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21) before November 10, 1978, or is subject to forfeiture to the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21) on such date of enactment, pursuant to the assessment of a civil penalty under [section 1540 of this title](/usc/16/1540.md); and
    - (C) is in the custody of the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21) on November 10, 1978;

    may, before the close of the one-year period beginning on November 10, 1978, make application to the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) for return of the article. Application shall be made in such form and manner, and contain such documentation, as the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) prescribes. If on the basis of any such application which is timely filed, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) is satisfied that the requirements of this paragraph are met with respect to the article concerned, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall return the article to the applicant and the importation of such article shall, on and after the date of return, be deemed to be a lawful importation under this chapter.

- (i) **Noncommercial transshipments—** Any importation into the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21) of [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) shall, if—
  - (1) such [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) was lawfully taken and exported from the country of origin and country of reexport, if any;
  - (2) such [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) is in transit or transshipment through any place subject to the jurisdiction of the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21) en route to a country where such [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) may be lawfully imported and received;
  - (3) the exporter or [owner](/usc/16/429b–3.md?p=4) of such [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) gave explicit instructions not to ship such [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) through any place subject to the jurisdiction of the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21), or did all that could have reasonably been done to prevent transshipment, and the circumstances leading to the transshipment were beyond the exporter’s or [owner](/usc/16/429b–3.md?p=4)’s control;
  - (4) the applicable requirements of the [Convention](/usc/16/1532.md?p=4) have been satisfied; and
  - (5) such importation is not made in the course of a [commercial activity](/usc/16/1532.md?p=2),

  be an importation not in [violation](/usc/16/620e.md?p=11) of any provision of this chapter or any regulation issued pursuant to this chapter while such [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) remains in the control of the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21) Customs Service.

- (j) **Experimental populations—**
  - (1) For purposes of this subsection, the term “experimental population” means any population (including any offspring arising solely therefrom) authorized by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) for release under [paragraph (2)](#j-2), but only when, and at such times as, the population is wholly separate geographically from nonexperimental populations of the same [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16).
  - (2)
    - (A) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may authorize the release (and the related transportation) of any population (including eggs, propagules, or individuals) of an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) outside the current range of such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) if the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) determines that such release will further the [conservation](/usc/16/1532.md?p=3) of such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16).
    - (B) Before authorizing the release of any population under [subparagraph (A)](#j-2-A), the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall by regulation identify the population and determine, on the basis of the best available information, whether or not such population is essential to the continued existence of an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20).
    - (C) For the purposes of this chapter, each member of an experimental population shall be treated as a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20); except that—
      - (i) solely for purposes of [section 1536 of this title](/usc/16/1536.md) (other than [subsection (a)(1)](#a-1) thereof), an experimental population determined under [subparagraph (B)](#j-2-B) to be not essential to the continued existence of a [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) shall be treated, except when it occurs in an [area](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=1-A) within the National Wildlife Refuge System or the National [Park](/usc/16/410r–5.md?p=c-3) System, as a [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) proposed to be listed under [section 1533 of this title](/usc/16/1533.md); and
      - (ii) [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A) shall not be designated under this chapter for any experimental population determined under [subparagraph (B)](#j-2-B) to be not essential to the continued existence of a [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16).
  - (3) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15), with respect to populations of [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) that the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) authorized, before October 13, 1982, for release in geographical [areas](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=1-A) separate from the other populations of such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16), shall determine by regulation which of such populations are an experimental population for the purposes of this subsection and whether or not each is essential to the continued existence of an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20).

## Footnotes

[^1]: See References in Text note below.
[^2]: So in original. No cl. (ii) has been enacted.

## Source credit

(Pub. L. 93–205, § 10, Dec. 28, 1973, 87 Stat. 896; Pub. L. 94–359, §§ 2, 3, July 12, 1976, 90 Stat. 911, 912; Pub. L. 95–632, § 5, Nov. 10, 1978, 92 Stat. 3760; Pub. L. 96–159, § 7, Dec. 28, 1979, 93 Stat. 1230; Pub. L. 97–304, § 6(1)–(4)(A), (5), (6), Oct. 13, 1982, 96 Stat. 1422–1424; Pub. L. 100–478, title I, §§ 1011, 1013(b), (c), Oct. 7, 1988, 102 Stat. 2314, 2315.)

## Notes

### Editorial Notes

### References in Text

This chapter, referred to in text, was in the original “this Act”, except for “the Act” in subsec. (f)(6)(B), meaning Pub. L. 93–205, Dec. 28, 1973, 81 Stat. 884, known as the Endangered Species Act of 1973, which is classified principally to this chapter. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1531 of this title and Tables.

Section 668cc–3 of this title, referred to in subsec. (b), was repealed by Pub. L. 93–205, § 14, Dec. 28, 1973, 87 Stat. 903.

Subsec. (f) of section 1533 of this title, referred to in subsec. (f)(5), which related to promulgation of regulations by the Secretary was struck out, and subsec. (g) of section 1533 of this title, was redesignated as subsec. (f), by Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(4)(B), (C), Oct. 13, 1982, 96 Stat. 1415. For provisions relating to promulgation of regulations, see subsecs. (b) and (h) of section 1533 of this title.

Effective date of this subsection, referred to in subsec. (f)(6)(A), probably means the date of enactment of subsec. (f) by section 2 of Pub. L. 94–359, July 12, 1976.

October 7, 1988, referred to in subsec. (f)(8)(A), was in the original “the date of enactment of the Endangered Species Act Amendments of 1988” and “the date of such enactment” which were translated as meaning the date of enactment of title I of Pub. L. 100–478 which is entitled “Endangered Species Act Amendments of 1988” and which was approved Oct. 7, 1988.

### Amendments

1988—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 100–478, § 1013(b), substituted “notice, of” for “notice,” in second sentence.

Subsec. (e)(3)(ii). Pub. L. 100–478, § 1013(c), substituted “lacing,” for “lacking,”.

Subsec. (f)(8)(A). Pub. L. 100–478, § 1011(a), amended subpar. (A) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (A) read as follows: “Any person to whom a certificate of exemption has been issued under paragraph (4) of this subsection may apply to the Secretary for a renewal of such exemption for a period not to exceed three years beginning on the expiration date of such certificate. Such application shall be made in the same manner as the application for exemption was made under paragraph (3), but without regard to subparagraph (A) of such paragraph.”

Subsec. (f)(8)(B). Pub. L. 100–478, § 1011(b), substituted “previous” for “original”.

Subsec. (f)(8)(D). Pub. L. 100–478, § 1011(c), added subpar. (D).

Subsec. (f)(9). Pub. L. 100–478, § 1011(d), struck out par. (9) which provided for comprehensive review by Secretary of effectiveness of regulations prescribed pursuant to subsec. (f)(5) of this section.

1982—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 97–304, § 6(1), designated as par. (1) and the beginning phrase of subpar. (A) thereof the existing provisions consisting of language authorizing the Secretary to permit, under such terms and conditions as he may prescribe, any act otherwise prohibited by section 1538 of this title for scientific purposes or to enhance the propagation or survival of the affected species, and inserted remainder of par. (1)(A) and pars. (1)(B) and (2).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 97–304, § 6(2), substituted “subsections (a)(1)(A) and (b) of this section” for “subsections (a) and (b) of this section”.

Subsec. (f)(1)(B). Pub. L. 97–304, § 6(3)(A), substituted “involves the substantial etching or engraving of designs upon, or the substantial carving of figures” for “involves the etching or engraving of designs upon, or the carving of figures” and inserted provision that, for purposes of this subsection, polishing or the adding of minor superficial markings does not constitute substantial etching, engraving, or carving.

Subsec. (f)(9). Pub. L. 97–304, § 6(3)(B), added par. (9).

Subsec. (h)(1). Pub. L. 97–304, § 6(4)(A), struck out “(other than scrimshaw)” after “do not apply to any article” in provisions preceding subpar. (A) and in subpar. (A) substituted “is not less than 100 years of age” for “was made before 1830”.

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 97–304, § 6(5), substituted provisions covering noncommercial transshipments of fish or wildlife for provisions that had related to exemptions from the provisions of this title of the Tellico Dam and Reservoir Project and the Grayrocks Dam and Reservoir Project and to the operation of the Missouri Basin Power Project.

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 97–304, § 6(6), added subsec. (j).

1979—Subsec. (f)(4)(C). Pub. L. 96–159, § 7(1), inserted “unless such exemption is renewed under paragraph (8)” after “issuance of the certificate”.

Subsec. (f)(8). Pub. L. 96–159, § 7(2), added par. (8).

1978—Subsecs. (h), (i). Pub. L. 95–632 added subsecs. (h) and (i).

1976—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 94–359, § 3, substituted “section” for “subsection” and inserted “; except that such thirty-day period may be waived by the Secretary in an emergency situation where the health or life of an endangered animal is threatened and no reasonable alternative is available to the applicant, but notice of any such waiver shall be published by the Secretary in the Federal Register within ten days following the issuance of the exemption or permit.” after “every stage of the proceeding”.

Subsecs. (f), (g). Pub. L. 94–359, § 2, added subsecs. (f) and (g).

### Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

### Effective Date of 1982 Amendment

Pub. L. 97–304, § 6(4)(B), Oct. 13, 1982, 96 Stat. 1424, provided that: “The amendment made by subparagraph (A) [amending this section] shall take effect January 1, 1981.”

### Transfer of Functions

For transfer of functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the United States Customs Service of the Department of the Treasury, including functions of the Secretary of the Treasury relating thereto, to the Secretary of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 203(1), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6. For establishment of U.S. Customs and Border Protection in the Department of Homeland Security, treated as if included in Pub. L. 107–296 as of Nov. 25, 2002, see section 211 of Title 6, as amended generally by Pub. L. 114–125, and section 802(b) of Pub. L. 114–125, set out as a note under section 211 of Title 6.

### Scrimshaw Exemptions

Pub. L. 103–238, § 18, Apr. 30, 1994, 108 Stat. 559, provided that: “Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any valid certificate of exemption renewed by the Secretary (or deemed to be renewed) under section 10(f)(8) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1539(f)(8)) for any person holding such a certificate with respect to the possession of pre-Act finished scrimshaw products or raw material for such products shall remain valid for a period not to exceed 5 years beginning on the date of enactment of this Act [Apr. 30, 1994].”