Global logistics across 170+ countries
Exotic parrot in specialist travel environment
Exotic animal transport

Specialist transport for extraordinary companions.

Exotic animals are not just unusual — they have highly specific physiological, behavioral, and regulatory requirements that demand specialist knowledge at every stage of transport. CEVA's exotic animal transport team combines trained exotic species handlers, CITES compliance expertise, and purpose-built transport solutions to give your exotic pet the best possible journey.

CITES compliance

Legal, compliant, and transparent — always.

CEVA will only transport exotic animals where legal ownership is established and all CITES and national regulations are fully satisfied. We do not transport illegally acquired animals or facilitate any movement that contravenes wildlife protection law. Our CITES compliance team will guide you through every permit requirement.

CITES Appendix I

Most protected species

Species threatened with extinction. Commercial trade is generally prohibited. Movement of legally acquired specimens (e.g., captive-bred) requires both export and import CITES permits from the relevant national authorities. Our team manages the full permit application process.

CITES Appendix II

Regulated trade species

Species not currently threatened but potentially at risk without trade regulation. International trade is permitted but regulated — typically requiring an export permit and, in some countries, an import permit. We manage all documentation for Appendix II species.

Non-CITES

Nationally regulated species

Many exotic species not listed under CITES may still be regulated under national law. CEVA verifies ownership legality and national permit requirements for all exotic species before accepting any booking — ensuring full legal compliance in all jurisdictions.

Exotic bird being cared for by CEVA exotic animal specialist
Climate control

Every species travels at exactly the right temperature.

Our exotic transport solutions maintain precise temperature, humidity, and ventilation parameters specific to each species — from tropical rainforest conditions for dart frogs to the temperate ranges required by Mediterranean tortoises.

Animal types

Exotic species we specialize in transporting.

Our exotic animal transport capability covers a wide range of species. Each requires different handling expertise, containment solutions, and documentation. Here is an overview of the categories we regularly work with.

Colorful parrot in specialized travel enclosure
CITES Protected

Parrots & Psittacines

African Greys, Macaws, Cockatoos, Amazons, Conures, Cockatiels

Many parrot species are CITES-listed and require import/export permits for international travel. CEVA's avian transport specialists understand the specific needs of psittacine birds — appropriate perch design, temperature requirements, and stress minimization are central to every journey.

  • CITES Appendix I or II permits typically required
  • DNA sexing and ring records may be needed
  • Temperature range: 18–26°C throughout journey
  • Darkness recommended during transport to reduce stress
Tortoise in climate-controlled transport container
CITES Protected

Reptiles

Tortoises, Geckos, Chameleons, Snakes, Bearded Dragons, Iguanas

Reptiles are ectothermic — entirely dependent on external temperature regulation. CEVA provides heated, climate-controlled transport containers purpose-designed for reptile species, maintaining the precise temperature and humidity ranges each species requires.

  • Many species on CITES Appendix I, II, or III
  • Temperature gradients maintained during transit
  • Humidity management for rainforest species
  • Minimized transit times to reduce metabolic stress
Primate in specialized welfare-compliant transport
CITES Protected

Non-Human Primates

Marmosets, Capuchins, Squirrel Monkeys (where legally held)

The transport of non-human primates is subject to the most stringent regulations of any pet category. CEVA works only within the framework of legal ownership, CITES permitting, and the highest possible welfare standards. Pre-travel consultation is essential.

  • CITES Appendix I — all species require permits
  • Extensive documentation and ownership verification
  • Specialized containment to IATA standards
  • Pre-travel veterinary and behavioral assessment required
Exotic amphibian in specialized transport habitat

Amphibians

Tree Frogs, Axolotls, Salamanders, Fire-bellied Toads, Dart Frogs

Amphibians require highly specific temperature and humidity conditions during transport. Many species are extremely sensitive to vibration, temperature fluctuation, and chemical exposure. CEVA's exotic team designs tailored transport solutions for each amphibian species.

  • Custom humidity-controlled containers
  • Dechlorinated water and appropriate substrate
  • Temperature management for tropical and temperate species
  • Minimized handling throughout the journey
Bird of prey in specialist transport housing
CITES Protected

Birds of Prey

Falcons, Hawks, Owls, Eagles (where legally held with appropriate licensing)

Falconry birds and legally held raptors require trained specialist handlers and purpose-built transport with appropriate jesses, perch management, and hooding. CEVA works with licensed falconers and specialist avian veterinarians for all raptor transport.

  • CITES permits for most raptor species
  • Falconry equipment and licensing documentation required
  • Specialist handler mandatory for all raptor transport
  • IATA Live Animals Regulations compliance
Exotic invertebrate in secure transport container

Invertebrates & Arachnids

Tarantulas, Scorpions, Stick Insects, Hermit Crabs, Millipedes

Invertebrate transport requires minimal vibration, appropriate substrate, and careful packaging. Some species are venomous and require handling by trained staff. CEVA's exotic team provides appropriate escape-proof containment and species-specific care protocols.

  • Escape-proof primary and secondary containers
  • Appropriate ventilation without escape risk
  • Venomous species: specialist handling required
  • Temperature management for tropical species
Special containment

Purpose-built transport solutions for exotic species.

Standard pet carriers are not appropriate for most exotic animals. CEVA designs or sources species-appropriate transport containment that meets IATA Live Animal Regulations while providing the conditions each species needs for a safe, comfortable journey.

  • IATA-compliant primary and secondary enclosures
  • Species-specific substrate, perching, and enrichment
  • Climate-controlled containers with independent monitoring
  • Escape-proof design tested for all containment categories
  • Ventilation rates appropriate to species metabolic needs
  • Anti-vibration mounting for sensitive species

Important notice

CEVA will not transport any animal where legal ownership cannot be established, where CITES compliance cannot be achieved, or where the journey would represent an unacceptable welfare risk to the animal. We reserve the right to decline any booking that does not meet our welfare or compliance standards.

Exotic bird with specialist handler before international transport

IATA Live Animals Regulations

All CEVA exotic animal transport by air follows IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) — the global standard for the safe transport of live animals by air. Our exotic team is trained and certified to the latest LAR edition, ensuring every flight movement is compliant and welfare-appropriate.

How to book

Exotic transport enquiries — what to expect.

Due to the specialist nature of exotic animal transport, all bookings begin with a detailed consultation. This ensures we fully understand your animal's needs, verify legal compliance, and design the right transport solution before any commitment is made.

Stage 1

Initial consultation

Tell us about your animal — species, age, health status, origin, destination, and intended travel dates. We'll confirm feasibility, identify regulatory requirements, and outline the process.

Stage 2

Compliance verification

Our CITES compliance team verifies ownership documentation, identifies required permits, and begins any long-lead applications. For some species this process can take several months.

Stage 3

Transport design & delivery

Once compliance is confirmed, we design the transport solution, source appropriate containment, and coordinate every element of the journey from collection to delivery with your exotic animal's welfare at the forefront.

Exotic animal transport

Your extraordinary pet deserves extraordinary care.

Enquire about exotic animal transport today. Our specialist team will assess your animal's needs, verify compliance requirements, and build a transport plan that puts welfare first — every time.