What_to_do_if_you_discover_a_bird_that_is_not_an_eagle_or_a_threatened_or_endangered_species

What to do if you discover an injured or dead bird that is not
an eagle or a threatened or endangered species.
If the bird is injured:
Any person who finds a sick, injured, or orphaned migratory bird may, without a permit, take
possession of the bird in order to immediately transport it to a permitted rehabilitator. A
directory of rehabbers by state can be found at: http://wildliferehabinfo.org/
If you do not intend to take the bird directly to a permitted rehabilitator and need to move the
bird, contact a wildlife official or agency, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, or local licensed
wildlife pest control company that is permitted for the possession, handling, transport, and
disposal of migratory birds.
If you do bring the bird directly to a permitted rehab facility yourself make sure to use
appropriate protective equipment, including gloves to protect against possible disease,
contamination or physical harm.
Make sure to give the rehabber the IMR Unique ID created when you logged the record of the
injury in IMR.
If the bird is dead:
It is against the law to keep any bird, bird feather, or other part under the Migratory Bird Treaty
Act unless you have a permit to do so. If you have a Special Purpose Utility (SPUT) permit, this
will allow you to pick up and dispose of the bird. SPUT permits can be obtained by contacting
your regional Migratory Bird Program Permit Office. A SPUT permit does come with conditions,
including an annual reporting requirement.
If you do not have a SPUT permit, you should not be picking up or handling dead birds. If you
absolutely need to move the bird and you are not in possession of a SPUT permit, contact a
wildlife official or agency, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, or local licensed wildlife pest control
company that is permitted for the possession, handling, transport, and disposal of migratory
birds.