Yes, collecting feathers in New Mexico is legal under specific conditions, but it is governed by federal and state wildlife protections. Native bird feathers, including those from migratory species, are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, while state regulations enforced by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish further restrict take and possession. Recent 2026 amendments to the New Mexico Wildlife Conservation Act tighten penalties for unauthorized feather collection, particularly for raptors and game birds.
Key Regulations for Collecting Feathers in New Mexico
- Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA): Federally prohibits the take, possession, or sale of feathers from migratory birds (e.g., ducks, geese, songbirds) without a permit. Violations carry fines up to $15,000 and potential imprisonment under 16 U.S.C. § 707.
- New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) Regulations: Requires a Non-Game Wildlife Permit for scientific or educational purposes; recreational collection is banned for species like golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) and great horned owls (Bubo virginianus). State law mirrors MBTA but adds stricter enforcement for raptor feathers.
- Cultural and Tribal Exemptions: Federally recognized tribes with treaty rights (e.g., Pueblo of Zuni, Navajo Nation) may collect feathers for traditional purposes under the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, but non-tribal individuals face stringent restrictions.
Permit Requirements and Penalties A Scientific Collecting Permit from NMDGF is mandatory for non-lethal feather collection in research contexts, with applications reviewed for conservation impact. Unauthorized possession of even a single feather from protected species can trigger civil penalties under NMSA 1978, § 17-2-37, including fines up to $5,000 and confiscation. The 2026 amendments now require mandatory reporting of feather collections to NMDGF within 30 days, aligning state law with federal tracking systems.