It is strictly regulated.
Collecting feathers in Washington, D.C. is prohibited under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and local wildlife protection laws, with exceptions only for permitted scientific or educational purposes. Violations may result in fines up to $15,000 or imprisonment under D.C. Municipal Regulations § 23-1301. The D.C. Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) enforces these restrictions, particularly near the National Mall and Anacostia River areas.
Key Regulations for Collecting Feathers in Washington D.C.
- Migratory Bird Protection: Federal law under 50 CFR § 10.13 prohibits the take, possession, or collection of feathers from migratory birds, including common species like pigeons or starlings, without a permit from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
- Local Permitting Exceptions: DOEE may issue permits for research or cultural activities, but applicants must demonstrate necessity and submit to inspections under D.C. Code § 8-1201.1.
- Prohibited Areas: Collection is banned in all federal parks, including Rock Creek Park and the National Mall, per the National Park Service’s 36 CFR § 2.15. Urban scavenging risks enforcement under D.C. Municipal Regulations § 23-1302.
Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize stricter penalties for unauthorized feather collection, aligning with D.C.’s Wildlife Action Plan to protect declining bird populations. DOEE’s 2025 enforcement reports highlight increased surveillance in areas with high migratory bird activity.