1608

Notwithstanding the provisions of this chapter, the Secretary of Agriculture, when he determines that the proper responsibility and continued interest for the protection of the public interest exists, may then permit, through written authorization and subject to the restrictions or conditions therein imposed, the acquisition, introduction, possession, sale or transfer, for zoological, educational, recreational, medical or scientific purposes, wild mammals, wild birds, fish, including also mollusca and crustacea, amphibians, reptiles, microorganisms, insects, or their eggs or progeny, although such acts have been prohibited through regulation promulgated under this chapter.\nHistory —June 23, 1971, No. 70, p. 209, § 8.