Yes, collecting feathers in Nebraska is generally legal for personal, non-commercial use under state and federal wildlife laws, but strict regulations apply to migratory birds and protected species. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) enforces these rules, aligning with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and Nebraska’s wildlife statutes. Recent 2026 compliance updates emphasize stricter permitting for educational or scientific purposes, requiring prior NGPC approval for any collection beyond incidental finds.
Key Regulations for Collecting Feathers in Nebraska
- Migratory Bird Protections: Under the MBTA, it is illegal to collect feathers from migratory birds (e.g., ducks, geese, songbirds) without a federal permit. Nebraska enforces this via NGPC’s permitting system, with violations punishable by fines up to $15,000 or imprisonment.
- Non-Migratory Species: Feathers from non-migratory game birds (e.g., pheasants, turkeys) may be collected for personal use if obtained legally during hunting seasons. However, possession of shed feathers from protected species (e.g., raptors) remains prohibited without NGPC authorization.
- Commercial and Educational Use: Any commercial sale or educational use of feathers requires an NGPC-issued permit. The 2026 updates mandate pre-approval for such activities, including documentation of source and purpose, to curb illegal trafficking.
Violations of these regulations are enforced through NGPC’s conservation officers, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses or evidence of intent to sell protected feathers. Always verify species identification and permit requirements before collection.