Migratory Bird Treaty

August 16, 2016 marks the centennial (100^th year) of the Convention between the United States and Great Britain (for Canada) for the Protection of Migratory Birds – known as the Migratory Bird Treaty. Three other treaties were signed shortly thereafter with Japan, Russia and Mexico. The Migratory Bird Treaty, the three additional treaties and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act are the cornerstones of efforts to conserve birds that migrate across international borders.

This act makes it illegal for anyone to take, possess, import, export, transport, sell, purchase, barter, or offer for sale, purchase, or barter, any migratory bird, or the parts, nests, or eggs of such a bird except under the terms of a valid permit issued pursuant to Federal regulations.

Many of these migratory birds may be found wearing one of National Band’s bird bands. We produce a wide variety of styles, sizes, and colors to accommodate the tracking of these migratory birds.

Centennial Campaign Goals:

Create awareness about the importance of migratory bird conservation by encouraging news media stories about treaty achievements, migratory birds, and habitat conservation, and connecting people to migratory bird conservation via social media.

Promote key actions that anyone can take to help birds. This includes participating in citizen science programs such as bird counts; expanding property and homeowner use of bird-friendly practices such as lights out programs, reducing collisions, and maintaining wildlife-friendly gardens; and increasing sales of the Federal Duck Stamp, which protects habitat for migratory birds.

Increase support for migratory bird conservation programs and initiatives by strengthening national and international partnerships and increasing knowledge and understanding of key legislation for migratory birds.

Expand opportunities for engagement in activities such as bird watching, hunting, and conservation, including bird-focused programs and festivals.

To learn more about the Migratory Bird Treaty Act check out:

https://www.fws.gov/birds/mbtreaty100/