KNOW THE LEGAL OPTIONS
FOR OBTAINING SPECIMENS
FOR MAKING MOLDS AND CASTINGS
OF BIRD BILLS AND BEAKS

by Jo Craemer
see also the article MAKING YOUR OWN STUDY BILLS by Jo Craemer.

Woodcarver Ezine
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Where will you get a fresh specimen for your mold? If you are a hunter or have a hunting friend, you have a good source for waterfowl and upland game species. But what about migratory species protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which prohibits you from having protected birds in your possession. (Virtually any bird other than a Starling, English Sparrow or Pigeon.)

I'm not familiar with the laws of other countries - but in the USA there are several ways to legally take advantage of the multitude of "protected" birds who have met their untimely demise by flying into a window or car, or through natural causes.

First - and best if you need frequent access to good reference material- is to apply for state and federal permits. State laws vary widely so talk to your Department of Fish and Game. Federal requirements may be met by obtaining a "Special Purpose Possession" Permit. Write to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Law Enforcement in your region. Ask for application instructions, a copy of Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations - Part 10, General Provisions; Part 13, General Permit Procedures; and Part 21, Migratory Bird Permits.

The permits will allow you to have possession of protected (not endangered or threatened) birds for up to one year, at which time they must be disposed of in accordance with the regulations. You'll also have to keep records and make an annual report.

Second - if you only occasionally want to take advantage of the random road kill - you can carry a "Mold-making Kit" with you in your glove compartment or pocket, and make the mold when you find the bird. I called the folks in the Region 5 Law Enforcement Division and was told that would be OK to pick the dead bird up in the field, make a mold and leave the bird right where you found it. You might want to check with the office in your area to confirm that they have no problem with this.

Third - if you live near a bird rehabilitation center, ask them if you can make impressions of the bills of birds which have died or had to be euthanized. They probably have a freezer full. Do some volunteer work for them. You'll learn a lot and see some great birds up close.

Following are the addresses and phone numbers
for obtaining federal permits:

REGION 1
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Division of Law Enforcement
911 N.E. 11th Avenue
Portland, Oregon 97232-4181
503-231-6125


REGION 2
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Division of Law Enforcement
P.O. Box 329
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87103
505-766-2091


REGION 3
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Division of Law Enforcement
P.O. Box 45
Federal Building
Ft. Snelling
Twin Cities, Minnesota 55111
612-725-3530


REGION 4
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Division of Law Enforcement
P.O. Box 4839
Atlanta, Georgia 30302
404-331-5872


REGION 5
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Division of Law Enforcement
P.O. Box 779
Hadley, Massachusetts 01035-0779
413-253-8643


REGION 6
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Division of Law Enforcement
P.O. Box 25486
Denver, Colorado 80225
303-236-7540


REGION 7
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Division of Law Enforcement
P.O. Box 92597
Anchorage, Alaska 99509-2597
907-786-3311