FAQs/Commonly Asked Questions
About Migratory Birds
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the nation’s premier wildlife conservation agency. By law, the Service is responsible for conserving migratory birds and their habitats. But what does that mean and how do we do it?
The goals of the Migratory Bird Program are to protect, restore, and manage migratory bird populations to:
- ensure long-term ecological sustainability of all migratory bird populations,
- increase socioeconomic benefits,
- improve hunting and birdwatching, other outdoor bird-related experiences,
- increase awareness of the value of migratory birds and their habitats for their intrinsic, ecological, recreational and economic significance.
We are responsible for maintaining healthy migratory bird populations for the benefit of the American people through:
- Population Monitoring, Assessment, and Management
- Habitat Conservation
- Permits and Regulations
- Consultation
- Communication and Outreach
- Recreation
Hunting & Permits
Through aerial surveys and other monitoring activities, the Migratory Bird Program determines the status of both game and non-game birds. Using this information, we establish regulations to authorize migratory bird hunting and provide opportunities, through the issuance of permits, for organizations and individuals to participate in migratory bird conservation. We support scientific research, rehabilitation of injured birds, education, falconry, taxidermy, and control of overabundant species
Injured Birds and Bird Rehabilitation
Baby Birds & Bird Nests
Bird Feeding & Bird-Friendly Habitat
Hummingbirds
Nuisance Birds
Bird Watching
Federal and Junior Duck Stamps & E-Stamps
Bird Population Management
Grants & Funding Sources