Under the 1949 amendments of the Lacey Act, it is illegal to import wild animals and birds under which conditions?

The choice that states it is illegal to import wild animals and birds that are inhumane or unhealthy reflects the core principles of the Lacey Act’s intent to protect wildlife and ensure humane treatment. The 1949 amendments were designed to prevent the importation of animals that may suffer greatly during transport, or that are brought in with diseases that could threaten native species and ecosystems.

By focusing on the health and welfare of the animals, the law seeks to promote both humane practices in wildlife trade and to limit risks to the environment and public health associated with importing unhealthy or stressed animals. This aspect of the Lacey Act emphasizes a commitment to maintaining ethical standards in wildlife management and trade, which aligns with broader conservation efforts.

Other conditions, such as being environmentally sensitive, extreme, or unprofitable, do not capture the main directive of these amendments related to animal welfare and public health concerns, hence they are not the correct focus of the law provisions in this context.