USFWS revised the List of Migratory Birds protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) by both adding and removing species. Reasons for the changes to the list include adding species based on new taxonomy and new evidence of natural occurrence in the United States or U.S. territories, removing species no longer known to occur within the United States or U.S. territories, and changing names to conform to accepted use. The net increase of 67 species (75 added and 8 removed) will bring the total number of species protected by the MBTA to 1,093. USFWS regulate the taking, possession, transportation, sale, purchase, barter, exportation, and importation of migratory birds. This rule is effective 18 May 2020. POC is Eric L. Kershner, Chief of the Branch of Conservation, Permits, and Regulations; Division of Migratory Bird Management; USFWS; MS: MB; 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803; tel: (703) 358-2376.
(Federal Register: 16 Apr 2020 [Rule] pages 21282-21305).