Not being new to taxidermy, and I have a pretty fair knowledge of the laws pertaining to ducks. In the past two years I have mounted over 300 ducks and upland game birds. All of my birds were pan raised with the proper paper work. Expencive? Maybe,I love doing them so the cost is not an issue.
The mounts are wall or table top displays. 1-3 birds for each display. I live in a large metropolitan area mostly business offices. I have spent several weeks talking with upper management men and women, Dr's Lawyers,business owners,restraunts, and sporting good stors. There are several of these people who would love to have some type of display for there wall or office.
Now for my question. Is it legal for me to rent or lease the displays to them. I have made up a contract for one year and plan on rotating the displays if the costomer wishes. My next project will be game heads and fish. So,legal or not? Thanks to anyone who knows.
Gene Summers
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Gene,
I suppose with all state laws being different in some ways, you should check into yours. But here in PA, my WCO told me if the mount is mine I can do what I want with it.
I mean, if you are allowed to sell it, why wouldn't you be allowed to rent, lease, or whatever as long as all paperwork is legal? If you could make a continuing income from a mount or 2, I'd say go for it.
Wouldn't these people figure out though, that after awhile they could have just bought it.
Unless the "rent $" is for keeping the mount clean for them, maintaining it, and rotating the mounts to give them something new every few months. Just don't forget a contract! incase they would get broke or so the renter don't lay claim to it after awhile.
I can only comment on the fish side of things. IF you also had a paper trail with the fish (ie: purchased from Cecil or other commercial source) then I think you would be fine most anywhere.
But, if you were renting/leasing fish caught in the wild, I think that would be up to each states' laws and even then subject to interpretation by an individual CPO. I'd go for "paper trail" fish if I were you just to play it safe. Most potential customers would probably opt for the more colorful trout and salmon anyways. STILL check with your states DNR...
If they are pen raised I cant see why it wouldnt be legal.