The 2008 TGV Escargot Incident
In 2008, a French passenger boarded a high-speed TGV train traveling from the provinces to Paris carrying a basket of live snails. When the SNCF ticket inspector performed routine onboard inspections, he cited the passenger under official transport regulations for carrying live animals without valid transit tickets, issuing a formal fine.
Under SNCF Article 4 regarding pet transportation, all live domestic creatures weighing less than 5kg—which strictly includes birds, hamsters, dogs, and mollusks—must possess a specialized domestic animal ticket.
"Any live animal transported onboard SNCF train services must be enclosed within an approved carrying container and must possess a dedicated ticket tariff, ensuring security and passenger comfort."
SNCF's Official Corporate Stance
Following public amusement and media inquiries, SNCF confirmed the conductor had technically followed railway law to the letter. However, to show goodwill, the company later waived the penalty fee as a gesture of commercial hospitality, while keeping the underlying transport rule in place.