Selling Eurasian Starlings, English House Sparrows and Feral Pigeon Mounts

November 29, 2012

Question: Is it legal to sell or purchase Eurasian starling, English house sparrow or feral pigeon taxidermy mounts in California? I’m assuming it’s legal since they are not protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and they are not native to the state. However, they do fall under the “found in the wild” terminology used here: http://law.onecle.com/california/fish/3039.html (section “a”). Since farm-raised game bird mounts are legal to sell

http://law.onecle.com/california/fish/3039.html (section “d”), are invaders like starling, pigeon and sparrow okay as well? (Terry T.)

Answer: No, these birds may not be purchased or sold in California (Fish and Game Code, sections 3039 & 3801 – 3801.6). Each of these species are found in the wild in California and the prohibition in Fish and Game Code, section 3039 against selling applies, even though there is no closed season and they may be taken without the person being required to have a  hunting license.