• Welcome to BirdForum, the internet's largest birding community with thousands of members from all over the world. The forums are dedicated to wild birds, birding, binoculars and equipment and all that goes with it.

    Please register for an account to take part in the discussions in the forum, post your pictures in the gallery and more.
ZEISS DTI thermal imaging cameras. For more discoveries at night, and during the day.

Illegal Owls??? (1 Viewer)

You bet it's illegal, Merlin!

All native birds are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty of 1918. Theoretically, you can't even have a feather (even a molt) or nest! If you would find an injured bird, for example, you would be required to turn i over to a licensed rehabber.

Of course, enforcement is another story....

However, it is possible to 'own' native birds for educational purposes, but the permits are issued by the federal government and -- most likely -- your state government as well. Some friends of mine are in the process of obtaining permits in order to rehab. Although I know little about it, it does seem to be quite a process. You have provide (and prove) adequate 'housing' etc.

The place to start would be with your regional office of US Fish and Wildlife, which I think is part of the US Dept. of Interior.

Now a non-native owl -- if you could locate one -- would be a different story, because they are considered 'exotic'.
 
You can also (MUST) obtain permits for falconry. However, I don't know, and have never heard of, any one having an owl for falconry purposes.
 
I thought so, but my dad said he had a friend with a Short-eared Owl and that it was legal. Thanks for clearing that up:t:
 
Warning! This thread is more than 21 years ago old.
It's likely that no further discussion is required, in which case we recommend starting a new thread. If however you feel your response is required you can still do so.

Users who are viewing this thread

Back
Top