It is strictly regulated.
Montana law permits feather collection under stringent state and federal protections, primarily governed by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks regulations. Native bird feathers, including those from raptors, waterfowl, and songbirds, are federally protected, making unauthorized possession a misdemeanor or felony. Exceptions exist for Native American tribes under the 1990 Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, but non-tribal individuals face near-total bans. Recent 2026 amendments to Montana’s Administrative Rules (ARM 12.6.201) further restrict even incidental possession without permits, aligning with broader conservation efforts targeting declining bird populations.
Key Regulations for Collecting Feathers in Montana
- Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA): Federally prohibits possession, transport, or collection of feathers, nests, or eggs of migratory birds (e.g., eagles, hawks, geese) without a permit. Violations carry fines up to $15,000 and 6 months imprisonment under 50 CFR § 21.15.
- Montana Endangered Species Act (MESA): Bans collection of feathers from state-listed species (e.g., Black-footed Ferret, Greater Sage-Grouse) without a Scientific Collecting Permit (ARM 12.6.201). Permits require proof of research affiliation and peer-reviewed justification.
- Tribal Sovereignty Exceptions: Members of federally recognized tribes may collect feathers for cultural/religious use under the 1990 Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, but must adhere to tribal-specific ordinances (e.g., Blackfeet Tribal Code § 8-1-103). Non-tribal individuals cannot claim cultural exemptions.