Fact Sheet

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT A FEDERAL
MIGRATORY BIRD SPECIAL PURPOSE SALVAGE PERMIT

A Federal Migratory Bird Special Purpose Salvage permit will authorize you to collect dead migratory birds, nests,
eggs and parts from the wild that you had no part in the killing or death thereof, for wildlife conservation education
purposes. You should review Title 50 Parts 10, 13 and 21.27 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). You are
responsible for reviewing and understanding these regulations before you request and accept a permit. These
regulations can be found on our website at: http://www.fws.gov/permits/ltr/ltr.html.
1. Can I salvage migratory birds for personal use?
No. This permit does not allow anyone to salvage or possess migratory birds for personal use. All
migratory birds salvaged must be transferred to a public scientific or educational institution, zoological park,
museum or scientific society as defined in 50 CFR 10 or a Migratory Bird Special Purpose Possession permit issued
under 50 CFR 21.27.
2. Do I need to tag the migratory birds I salvage?
Yes. Each migratory bird salvaged must be tagged. Each tag should include the following information:
(a) Date and location specimen of salvaged, and
(b) Name of person who salvaged the specimen
The permit number under which the specimen was salvaged must be recorded in the permanent accession
record.
3. How long may I retain birds in my possession before transferring them to a designated repository?
All migratory birds salvaged must be deposited with a repository designated on your permit within 6
months of acquisition and/or by December 31 of that calendar year.
4. Do I need additional authorization to salvage migratory birds on Federal or State lands or private property?
Yes. This permit does not authorize you to salvage specimens on Federal or State lands or other public or
private property without additional prior written authorization, permission, or permits from the appropriate Federal
or State agency, landowner, or custodian.
5. Do I need a State permit to salvage migratory birds?
Your Federal salvage permit is not valid unless you are also in compliance with State requirements. This
means that if your State requires you to have a permit to salvage birds, you must hold a valid State permit in order
for your Federal permit to be valid. It is your responsibility to make sure you comply with State permit
requirements.
6. What is required to transfer my permit to a new location?
Any address change or other circumstances that affect your permit must be reported to your Regional
Migratory Bird Permit Office in writing within 10 days so your permit can be amended. (See 50 CFR 13.23)
7. Will I be required to keep records of my activities?
Yes. You must maintain accurate records of operations on a calendar-year basis. Your records should
include the species that is salvaged, date salvaged, the city or county and State where the bird was salvaged and the
final disposition of the specimen.
8. Will anyone inspect my records or salvage activities?
By accepting a Federal Special Purpose Salvage permit, you authorize an agent of the Service to enter your
premises at any reasonable hour to inspect the wildlife you hold, your books and records. (See 50 CFR 13.47)
9. Will I be required to submit an annual report of activities?
Yes. You will receive an annual report form from your Regional Migratory Bird Permit Office. The report
form can also be found on our website at: http://www.fws.gov/forms/3-202-3.pdf. This report must be completed

and submitted to your issuing office by January 31 of each year.
10. How do I renew my permit?
A renewal letter or form and annual report form will be sent to you at least 60 days prior to the expiration
of your permit. If you wish to renew your permit, you must return the completed renewal to your Regional
Migratory Bird Permit Office at least 30 days prior to the expiration of your permit and include a copy of your
current State permit, if one is required. If we receive your renewal request at least 30 days prior to the expiration of
your permit, your permit will remain valid beyond the expiration date for the activity authorized on your permit until
a decision on your renewal is made. If we receive your renewal request fewer than 30 days prior to expiration of
your permit and we are unable to process your request before the expiration date, your permit will expire and you
will no longer be covered for your activity. If you allow your permit to expire before requesting renewal, you may
be required to submit a new application. (See 50 CFR 13.22 and 13.11(c))
(3-200-10a) 2/20/2014

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