It is strictly regulated.
Collecting feathers in Brazil is legal only under strict conditions governed by environmental laws, requiring permits from ICMBio or state agencies. The 2026 updates to the Biodiversity Law (Law No. 13.123/2015) tightened controls, prohibiting collection without authorization, even for non-protected species. Violations may result in fines up to R$50 million or imprisonment, depending on species endangerment.
Key Regulations for Collecting Feathers in Brazil
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IBAMA/ICMBio Permits Required: Authorization from the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) or the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) is mandatory for any feather collection, including those from migratory birds protected under international treaties (e.g., Convention on Migratory Species). Permits are issued only for scientific, educational, or conservation purposes, with strict quotas.
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Species-Specific Bans: Collection of feathers from endangered or threatened species (e.g., Amazona brasiliensis, Crax blumenbachii) is outright prohibited under Normative Instructions 03/2014 and 10/2023. Even feathers found naturally (e.g., molted) cannot be retained without prior approval, as per the 2026 compliance guidelines.
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State-Level Variations: Some states (e.g., Amazonas, Pará) impose additional restrictions via local environmental agencies (e.g., IPAAM, SEMAS), requiring supplementary state-level permits. Municipalities may further regulate collection in protected areas, such as Reserves or Indigenous Lands, where access is restricted.