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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. |
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REGION 1 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 |