The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 was enacted to protect migratory birds that travel between the United States and Canada. Later conventions between the U.S. and Mexico, Japan, and the Union of Soviet Socialists Republic expanded the scope of the MBTA. The MBTA prohibits one "to pursue, hunt, take, attempt to take…any migratory bird, any part, nest, or eggs of such bird...", unless permitted by regulation
The US Fish and Wildlife Service issues permits to qualified applicants for the following types of activities: falconry, raptor propagation, scientific collecting, special purposes (rehabilitation, educational, migratory game bird propagation, and salvage), take of depredating birds, taxidermy, and waterfowl sale and disposal. The address for Region 2 permit office can be found HERE.
Texas Coastal Ecological Services Field Offices’ guidance for migratory bird concerns can be found HERE.
The National Avian Protection Plan guidelines can be found HERE.
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.
All images Credit to and Courtesy of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service unless specified otherwise.