The Migratory Bird Treaty Act?

Question

What is it? Can someone please explain?

10 points to best answer

Answer 1

The Migratory Bird treaty Act was enacted in 1918.  It was an agreement between the U.S. and Canada to prevent the killing and "collection" of birds listed as migratory.  Collection usually entailed killing for stuffing, taking eggs, feathers, etc.  For example, shortly before this act, an entire species was wiped out in making women's hats (Carolina Parakeet).  It was designed to protect some of America's natural heritage and regulate the trade and sale of these items.  While it was called the migratory bird treaty act, it encompassed birds that generally do not migrate.

Currently, it is used to protect habitat in many places, as no one is allowed to cut down trees or disturb habitat where migratory birds are nesting.  Also, it means that it is illegal to possess feathers of non-game birds, even if you just fond them on the ground.