Which birds may NYS licensed wildlife rehabilitators treat without a federal license?

Which birds may NYS licensed wildlife rehabilitators treat without a federal license?

• A. Bald Eagle
• B. American Robin
• C. European Starling
• D. Common Loon

Answer: (C)

Handling migratory birds is regulated by federal rules. Rehabilitating birds that are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act requires a federal permit in addition to any state license. The European Starling is not protected under this federal framework, because it’s an introduced species, so NYS wildlife rehabilitators can treat it with only a state license. In contrast, Bald Eagles, American Robins, and Common Loons are migratory birds protected by the MBTA, so rehabilitating them legally requires an approved federal permit as well.

Handling migratory birds is regulated by federal rules. Rehabilitating birds that are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act requires a federal permit in addition to any state license. The European Starling is not protected under this federal framework, because it’s an introduced species, so NYS wildlife rehabilitators can treat it with only a state license. In contrast, Bald Eagles, American Robins, and Common Loons are migratory birds protected by the MBTA, so rehabilitating them legally requires an approved federal permit as well.