Are there laws related to harming birds?
Native birds are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, with the exception of those which are legal to hunt in season with a license (doves, ducks and geese, quail, and turkey). It is otherwise illegal to kill ANY native birds, including hawks, crows, vultures, Blue Jays, and (alas) Brown-headed Cowbirds. It is also illegal to disturb their nests and eggs. It is LEGAL to kill non-native birds such as Rock Pigeons (city pigeons), House Sparrows, and European Starlings (killing starlings is a service, in fact). However the means of killing them is probably restricted by city gun laws and animal cruelty laws.
Native birds are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, with the exception of those which are legal to hunt in season with a license (doves, ducks and geese, quail, and turkey). It is otherwise illegal to kill ANY native birds, including hawks, crows, vultures, Blue Jays, and (alas) Brown-headed Cowbirds. It is also illegal to disturb their nests and eggs. It is LEGAL to kill non-native birds such as Rock Doves (city pigeons), House Sparrows, and European Starlings (killing starlings is a service, in fact). However the means of killing them is probably restricted by city gun laws and animal cruelty laws.
