Owls as Art

September 10, 2009

Question: Is it legal to use an owl wing as “educational art”? (Eric)

Answer: In most cases, no. Owls are protected by both state and federal laws.  Permits may be issued by either DFG or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to possess owls for limited purposes including scientific research, falconry, predation or disease prevention. And in some regions, wildlife rehabbers may use some parts for educational purposes.

There could be a situation where your project would fall into one of these categories; for example, if the owl parts were taken from a great horned owl legally possessed under a falconry license, you could then legally use them in Native Americans ceremonies that might include a non-commercial art component. But there are no permits that specifically authorize the use of owls for art. Your best bet is to start with the permits office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or your regional DFG office to explain what you want to do before you embark on your project.