About this Collection

The purpose of the Migratory Bird Permit Memorandum (MBPM) series is to clarify regulations and other existing migratory bird permit policy to ensure internally consistent implementation of the migratory bird permit program.

Migratory Bird Permit Memorandum Series (MBPM) Documents:

MBPM-1: Migratory Bird Permit Memorandum Series (2003)

MBPM-2: vacated (Nest Destruction Memo)

MBPM-3: Educational Use Permits - Falconry Education Programs (2004)

MBPM-4: CAPTURE, HANDLING, AND DISPOSITION OF DEPREDATING BIRDS (2022)

MBPM-5: Abatement Activities Using Raptors (2007)

MBPM-6: Disposition of Live Non-releasable Eagles (2013)

MBPM-7: Black Vulture Livestock Protection Pilot Program (2021)

MBPM-8: Intentional Release of Captive-raised Migratory Birds to the Wild (2021)

MBPM-9: Interpretation of the Depredation Order for Blackbirds (2021)

MBPM-10: Importation of Eiderdown for Personal Use (2021)

MBPM-11: Temporary Use of Certain Zip-tie Bands for Raptors Hatched in 2022 and 2023 (2022)

As authorized by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issues permits to qualified applicants for the following types of activities: raptor propagation, scientific collecting, special purposes (rehabilitation, educational, migratory game bird propagation, and salvage), take of depredating birds, taxidermy, and waterfowl sale and disposal.

Migratory bird permit policy is developed by the Migratory Bird Program and the permits themselves are issued by the Regional Migratory Bird Permit Offices. The regulations governing migratory bird permits can be found in 50 CFR part 13, 50 CFR part 21 (Migratory Bird Permits) and 50 CFR part 22 (Eagle Permits):

50 CFR 10 General Provisions

50 CFR 13 General Permit Procedures

Importation, Exportation, and Transportation of Wildlife

50 CFR 21 Migratory Bird Permits

50 CFR 22 Eagle Permits

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