Vertebrate animals of specially protected species are subject to mandatory notification. The keeper must notify the competent authority in writing of the number of animals immediately after the start of keeping and, following notification of the number of animals, of their entry and exit as well as their identification. A change of location must also be reported immediately.

Species under special protection include the majority of exotic animal species, e.g. monkeys, parrot birds, tortoises, giant snakes, lizard species (such as day geckos and chameleons), but also numerous native species. All European bird species are also included.