Import and Export of Migratory Birds

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which protects more than 800 species of migratory birds, generally prohibits the import or export of live birds; bird parts, nests, or eggs; and products made from them unless you have a permit.

This prohibition helps prevent the commercial exploitation of migratory birds by banning trade in live birds and such goods as mounted specimens, hats and other apparel adorned with migratory bird feathers, and arts and crafts items decorated with bird feathers and parts.

To obtain a migratory bird import/export permit, use this application form.

Permit Requirements

Unless you meet the requirements for an exception, you must obtain a permit from the Service before importing or exporting migratory birds. These permits are only issued when your possession of the bird, bird specimen is authorized in the United States.

Exceptions

You do not need a migratory bird import/export permit to:

1. Export captive-bred, properly marked migratory game birds to Canada and Mexico.

2. Import game birds that you have legally hunted in another country. If you are importing waterfowl, doves, and pigeons, you must abide by the limits set forth in 50 CFR 20.61. You cannot import or export birds that someone else hunted. Finished products, such as mounted specimens, are not exempt and require a migratory bird permit to import or export.

3. Import or export the feathers and skins of lawfully hunted migratory game birds for your personal use 50 CFR 20.92.

4. Import or export live raptors from or to Canada or Mexico to attend a falconry meet. You must legally possess such birds under a Service falconry permit. You cannot substitute one bird for another during the import/export process; the same bird or bird(s) must return to the country of export.

5. Import or export species that are not on the list of protected migratory birds. You may, however, need a permit under another U.S. law or treaty. For example, many exotic species are protected under the Wild Bird Conservation Act or the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. Check with the Service's Division of Management Authority, or DMA's contact page for possible permit requirements before you import or export an exotic bird, bird parts, or products.

Additional Requirements

• All imported and exported wildlife and wildlife products, including migratory birds, must enter and exit the United States through a designated wildlife port or authorized border port, unless you apply for and obtain a port exception permit.
  
  
• A port exception permit may only be issued
• For scientific purposes;


• To minimize deterioration or loss; or


• To alleviate undue economic hardship.

You must demonstrate that you meet one of these criteria before you can obtain a port exception permit.
You can apply for a port exception permit when you apply for a migratory bird import/export permit.

• A migratory bird import/export permit may cover multiple exportations and importations of birds or specimens identified on the permit. The permit does not authorize commercial trade in migratory birds or their parts, nests or feathers.



• If the species of migratory bird you wish to import or export is also listed as endangered or threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (link to ESA list) or protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) (link to species list) or the Wild Bird Conservation Act (link to species list), contact the Division of Management Authority (International Affairs). That office will process your request for an import/export permit.

To obtain a migratory bird import/export permit, use this application form.

For questions about this page, contact Eliza Savage at Eliza_Savage@fws.gov

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Revised May 15, 2003