The U.S. is home to an incredible variety of birds, from dazzling songbirds to majestic birds of prey. While many bird lovers dream of keeping these species as pets, strict laws protect most native birds to preserve their populations. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) makes it illegal to own many species, while others require special permits. Here’s a look at 15 beautiful birds found in the U.S. and whether they can legally be kept as pets.
1. Bald Eagle
The bald eagle, America’s national bird, symbolizes strength and freedom. With its massive wingspan and piercing gaze, it is a breathtaking sight in the wild. However, the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act makes it illegal to own, capture, or disturb these birds. Even possessing their feathers requires a special permit. These protections ensure bald eagles continue to thrive after nearly facing extinction due to habitat loss and pesticide use.
2. Painted Bunting
With its bright blue, red, and green plumage, the male painted bunting is often called the most beautiful bird in North America. Found in the southeastern U.S., these birds are protected under the MBTA, making it illegal to capture or own them as pets. Due to habitat destruction and illegal pet trade, their numbers have declined. Instead of keeping one in captivity, bird lovers can help by providing native plants and feeders in their backyards.
3. Snowy Owl
Snowy owls, famous for their white feathers and golden eyes, occasionally migrate south into the U.S. during winter. These striking birds are highly sought after, but they are completely illegal to own due to the MBTA. They require vast open spaces and specialized diets, making captivity unsuitable. Only licensed wildlife rehabilitators or zoos can legally care for injured or non-releasable snowy owls.
4. Scarlet Tanager
This brilliantly colored songbird, with its bright red body and black wings, is a favorite among birdwatchers. Native to North American forests, scarlet tanagers are protected under the MBTA and cannot be owned as pets. Their populations are at risk due to deforestation, making conservation efforts crucial. The best way to enjoy these birds is by preserving their natural habitat and creating bird-friendly spaces.
5. American Goldfinch
Known for its cheerful yellow feathers, the American goldfinch is a common sight in gardens. These birds are protected in the wild, but some states allow captive-bred goldfinches as pets with the proper permits. Wild goldfinches are crucial for pollination and seed dispersal, so keeping them in the wild benefits ecosystems. If you love goldfinches, providing nyjer seed feeders can help attract them to your yard.
6. Northern Cardinal
The northern cardinal’s vibrant red feathers and sweet song make it one of the most recognizable birds in the U.S. While they adapt well to suburban life, they cannot be owned as pets due to the MBTA. Keeping them in captivity disrupts their natural behaviors and breeding patterns. Birdwatchers can encourage cardinals to visit by planting berry-producing trees and offering sunflower seeds in feeders.
7. Blue Jay
With striking blue feathers and loud calls, blue jays are highly intelligent and social birds. Despite their appeal, they are protected under federal law, making ownership illegal. Blue jays thrive in the wild, using their intelligence to mimic sounds and even store food for later. If you want to attract them, placing peanuts or acorns in your backyard is a great way to observe their playful behavior.
8. American Robin
One of the most familiar birds in the U.S., the American robin is often seen hopping on lawns looking for worms. These birds cannot be owned as pets, as they are crucial to controlling insect populations. Their cheerful songs and adaptability make them a delight to watch in the wild. Instead of captivity, homeowners can support robins by planting native fruit-bearing trees and providing fresh water sources.
9. Great Horned Owl
The great horned owl, known for its deep hoots and tufted ears, is a top predator in North America. While private ownership is illegal, they can be kept by licensed falconers or wildlife educators. Falconry permits are difficult to obtain and require years of training. These birds need vast hunting grounds and specialized care, making them unsuitable for captivity outside of professional settings.
10. Peregrine Falcon
As the fastest bird in the world, the peregrine falcon is an awe-inspiring species. Owning one is only legal for licensed falconers, who must undergo extensive training and meet strict regulations. Wild peregrine populations have rebounded thanks to conservation efforts, and they now thrive in both rural and urban environments. Watching them dive at speeds of over 200 mph is a thrilling experience for bird enthusiasts.
11. Eastern Bluebird
The eastern bluebird, with its stunning blue and rust-colored feathers, is a beloved symbol of happiness. Despite their popularity, it is illegal to own them as pets. Their populations have struggled due to habitat loss, but conservation programs have helped them recover. Installing nest boxes and providing mealworms are great ways to attract them without violating wildlife laws.
12. Red-tailed Hawk
One of the most common hawks in North America, the red-tailed hawk is often seen soaring above highways. Private ownership is restricted, but they can be kept under falconry permits, which require years of apprenticeship. These birds are crucial for controlling rodent populations, making their presence in the wild beneficial. Observing them hunt in open fields is a rewarding experience.
13. Baltimore Oriole
Baltimore orioles, known for their striking orange and black plumage, are a favorite among backyard birdwatchers. Owning one as a pet is illegal, but they can be attracted with fruit feeders and nectar-rich plants. Their presence is a sign of a healthy ecosystem, and their melodic songs make them a joy to observe in the wild.
14. Sandhill Crane
These tall, elegant birds are famous for their elaborate courtship dances and loud calls. They are completely illegal to own due to strict federal protections. Sandhill cranes play a vital role in wetland ecosystems, and their populations are slowly recovering after years of decline. Conservationists continue to work on preserving their migratory routes.
15. House Finch
House finches are small, adaptable birds with cheerful songs. Unlike most species on this list, some states allow captive-bred house finches as pets with proper permits. However, capturing wild house finches is strictly illegal under the MBTA. Bird lovers can attract them with sunflower seed feeders and enjoy their natural beauty without removing them from their habitat.
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