The majestic Bald Eagle, a powerful symbol of the United States, is protected by stringent federal laws. Understanding the regulations surrounding American Eagle Transport, especially concerning eagle parts, is crucial for institutions involved in scientific research or public exhibitions. For these specific purposes, transporting Bald Eagle or Golden Eagle parts into the United States requires a Federal Eagle Transport Permit. This permit, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), ensures that any such transport adheres to strict guidelines for conservation and legality.
A Federal Eagle Transport Permit is specifically mandated when transporting parts of Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) or Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) into the United States for either scientific study or public display. It’s important to note that this permit is for temporary import only. Permanent importation of eagle parts is prohibited under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The permit ensures that the items remain under the original ownership and must be returned to the sender, unchanged, once the project or exhibition concludes.
This permit application can also accommodate the transport of other species protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, such as songbirds or hawks, alongside Bald Eagle or Golden Eagle parts, simplifying the process if multiple specimens are being transported for the same purposes. However, it is critical to understand that live eagles or viable eagle eggs are absolutely prohibited from being transported into or out of the United States under this permit.
Who Needs This Permit?
Eligibility for a Federal Eagle Transport Permit is limited to specific types of institutions. Only zoological parks, scientific societies, and museums that qualify as “public” under the criteria defined in 50 CFR 10.12 are eligible to apply (refer to 50 CFR 22.21 for detailed regulations). As part of the application process, these institutions must complete section B on page 1 of the application form to verify their eligibility.
What is Covered by This Permit?
The scope of the Federal Eagle Transport Permit is clearly defined. It exclusively covers “dead” eagle specimens and their parts. This includes feathers and tissue samples intended for scientific research or exhibition. It is crucial to reiterate that any items authorized under this permit are allowed in the United States on a temporary basis only. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act strictly forbids the permanent importation of these items. This permit specifically facilitates the transport of Bald Eagle and/or Golden Eagle parts into the U.S. for legitimate scientific or exhibition purposes.
Furthermore, all wildlife shipments, including those under this permit, must enter and exit the United States through designated wildlife ports. These ports are listed in 50 CFR 14.12. Any deviation from this requirement necessitates a separate exception permit issued by the Office of Law Enforcement under 50 CFR 14.
A key condition of this permit is that the transported items cannot change ownership. The exact same items, in their original condition, must be returned to the sender after the project or exhibition has ended.
What is Not Covered by This Permit?
It is equally important to understand what this permit does not cover. Most significantly, the transport of live eagles or viable eagle eggs is explicitly excluded. This permit is solely for the transport of dead eagle specimens and their parts for scientific or exhibition purposes.
The Application Process
To apply for a Federal Eagle Transport Permit, applicants can utilize the online ePermits system or submit a mail-in application. Detailed instructions are available on our ePermits site. This online portal provides a streamlined approach to application submission and management.
Permit holders are also required to submit annual reports. The ePermits site offers guidance and resources for fulfilling this annual reporting requirement.
Application Fee
There is a non-refundable application fee of $75 associated with the Federal Eagle Transport Permit. It is important to note that this fee is non-refundable, regardless of the application outcome. However, certain entities are exempt from this fee. Federal, Tribal, State, and local government agencies, as well as those acting on their behalf, are exempt from the processing fee. Exemption may require appropriate documentation to verify government agency status.
By adhering to the regulations and obtaining the necessary Federal Eagle Transport Permit, institutions can legally and ethically transport American eagle parts for critical scientific and educational endeavors, contributing to both research and public awareness while respecting wildlife protection laws.
