Shell Collecting in the Bahamas?

Question

Are you allowed to collect shells in the Bahamas? I thought I read somewhere it was illegal and if you tried to take them home in luggage they'd be confiscated from you.

Answer 1

There are thousands of shells on the beaches  in The Bahamas  and I know of no law that will prevent you  from collecting them.

But the problem you  might have will be in clearing US Customs when trying to import them into The United States.

They will be discovered in your luggage and confiscated.

Answer 2

It is illegal to remove conch shells from the island.

Answer 3

The Conch (animal) is an Internationally protected species (because it is somewhat going into decline) so as was mentioned, your Conch shells might get some attention from U.S. agents.

Answer 4

No, thats not true!  You will not, however, be able to bring any conch shells back that you collect - my suggestion is to purchase them if you'd like them...if they're not cleaned they smell awful.  Bring a ziploc bag for your shells and collect away tho!