ContactsTerry Whittaker 703-358-2220
Terry _whittaker@fws.gov
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently released a Proposed Rule to remove two species, the rusty blackbird and the Mexican (Tamaulipas) crow from the list of species that may be controlled under the depredation order for blackbirds, cowbirds, grackles, crows, and magpies. Currently, this regulation allows control of yellow-headed, red-winged, rusty, and Brewer's blackbirds, cowbirds, all grackles, crows, and magpies, without a permit, "when found committing or about to commit depredations upon ornamental or shade trees, agricultural crops, livestock, or wildlife, or when concentrated in such numbers and manner as to constitute a health hazard or other nuisance." The proposed rule would now require a separate depredation permit to conduct control actions to take either of these species.
"In keeping with our responsibilities to ensure the stability of migratory bird populations, we have determined that these two species warrant more careful management than we can accomplish under the existing depredation order," said Service Director H. Dale Hall. "We're undertaking this regulations change to require more careful control actions by individuals and agencies."
In the regulations change, the Service also proposes to require the use of nontoxic shot or bullets when a firearm is used to control any species listed under the depredation order, and to require reporting on control actions taken under the order.
Comments on the proposed rule can be submitted until March 9, 2009 by mail to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Division of Migratory Bird Management, 4401 North Fairfax Drive, Mail Stop 4107, Arlington, VA 22203-1610 or electronically at http://www.regulations.gov.Copies of the Proposed Rule can be obtained from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Division of Migratory Bird Management, at the same address. It also is available at http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.
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