Can you get in trouble for having a hawk feather?

Can you get in trouble for having a hawk feather?

It IS legal to possess feathers from non-native birds, so long as they are not critically endangered species. Not only are all hawk feathers illegal to have (for anyone but permitted Native American persons), but almost all native bird feathers are illegal to have.

Why is it illegal to own a wild bird feather?

It was in 1918 that a powerful federal law was passed to save the birds of the United States, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The law didn’t discriminate between live or dead birds, so even if a feather or egg was shed naturally, they were illegal for possession or sale.

Is owning an eagle feather illegal?

Can I keep eagle feathers and eagle parts? No, it is illegal for any individual to keep a bald or golden eagle, including its parts (feathers, feet, egg shells etc.) without a federal permit. State, tribal, and other permits may be needed as well.

Why is it illegal to keep eagle feathers?

Because of the religious and cultural significance of eagle feathers, the law makes an exception that allows members of federally recognized tribes to own eagle feathers. Eligible Native Americans must first get a permit to own and receive eagle feathers. However, they cannot give the feathers to non-Native Americans.

Can I keep a hawk feather I found?

The possession of feathers and other parts of native North American birds without a permit is prohibited by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). …

Can you keep feathers you find?

The possession of feathers and other parts of native North American birds without a permit is prohibited by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). Exceptions do exist for the feathers of legally-hunted waterfowl or other migratory gamebirds, and for the use of feathers by Native Americans.

Why is it illegal to collect feathers?

While the details of the urban legend may be exaggerated, it is in fact illegal to collect certain bird feathers thanks to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. The nearly 100-year-old act was put into place to protect birds that migrated between the United States and Canada because of a decline in bird populations.

What to do if you find a hawk feather?

It is illegal to obtain and possess hawk feathers in the US. So if you find one, photograph it or appreciate it where you found it and leave it be. It is not recommended that you take it home, even if you found it.

Is it illegal to collect feathers in the US?

Wrong. While the details of the urban legend may be exaggerated, it is in fact illegal to collect certain bird feathers thanks to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. The treaty makes it unlawful to hunt, take, capture, kill, or sell migratory birds.