I recently started mounting birds and i would like to Know if i need a license and wher could i get it.
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Hello, If you are doing ducks, geese, or anything considered migratory you need a federal license, Also you if you are doing it for "customers" you need your state licence if they have one.
Do not get your self in trouble with birds. Make sure you follow the rules.
Best regards,
M
For sure check with your state even if you're doing birds for yourself for practice. In New Mexico, practically all birds are taboo, insect eating, Song , etc. The list surprised me. If it wasn't in a generalized do not touch list it was considered a game animal, license required. Most especially roadkill.
There are many kinds of licenses - some specific to the State you are residing in. First of all, any bird you mount for yourself or others must be legally acquired amd legally possessed. To be legally acquired requires a license or permit - either a hunting license during applicable seasons or a collection permit for specific and otherwise protected birds. Thus, to mount birds for yourself you would need a hunting license or other permit to have the bird in your possession. In most states, if you legally acquired the bird you may mount it, eat it, through it away or whatever unless it is a protected specie. Proteced species must be handled separately. To do these things for a fee, you need at least two licenses above your hunting license. For migratory birds, you need a federal permit (check with your local Fed fish and wildlife folks). For migratory and upland birds most states require an additional State Taxidermy license (some states will not issue such a license until the applicant is tested and passes such a test) in other states you would also have to have a state business license. In still others there are also county and city business licenses and permits. It is not straight forward and will require some research on your part. Possibly you could consider visiting with a Taxidermist close to you and seeing what is required. I am sure they would be willing to help. Good Luck.
In response to JD,there is no state taxidermy liscense in New Mexico-even if you do non-migratory game birds. However,if you do Migratory birds for customers,then you do need a Federal Taxidermy Lisc. Yes,all birds are protected in all states except,sparrows,starlings and common pigeons.