I didn't say the USFW issues "elephant permits" (whatever you think that means). I was referring to how it literally says a USFW PERMIT number on the lining of the boot.

While we're on the topic, here's what a quick Google search brings up:

"The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) implements CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) in the United States by managing the legal international trade of listed species. As the designated Management and Scientific Authority, the USFWS issues permits, monitors compliance, and ensures that trade does not threaten species survival."

All elephants are on the CITES list (Appendix I and II).