It is strictly regulated.
Collecting feathers in South Africa requires adherence to the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) 10 of 2004 and provincial conservation laws, with strict prohibitions on endangered species. Permits from provincial authorities (e.g., CapeNature, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife) are mandatory for non-domestic feathers, while indigenous bird feathers are generally off-limits. Recent 2026 amendments under NEMBA’s Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) regulations tighten enforcement, imposing fines up to R10 million for violations. Exceptions exist for legally obtained domestic poultry feathers, but documentation proving sourcing is essential to avoid confiscation or prosecution.
Key Regulations for Collecting Feathers in South Africa
- NEMBA (Act 10 of 2004) & TOPS Regulations (2026 Amendments): Require permits for collecting, possessing, or trading feathers of indigenous or protected bird species. Violations trigger penalties under Section 97, including imprisonment or administrative fines.
- Provincial Permitting: Applications must be submitted to provincial conservation agencies (e.g., Western Cape’s CapeNature) for species-specific clearance. Processing times vary; delays are common for endangered species like vultures or eagles.
- Domestic vs. Wild Feathers: Feathers from legally farmed poultry (e.g., chickens, ducks) are exempt but must be sourced from registered abattoirs. Wild feathers, even from common species, are subject to provincial biodiversity permits.