Technically, yes, it is against the law.  Realistically, the law is there
to provide a tool to use against those who are killing or injuring birds in
order to obtain the feathers.  I agree with Mitch.  There is something
inherently wrong with a law that limits the ability of people, especially
children, to enjoy one of the marvels of nature.  That is not the intent of
the law.  The feds are not going to chase down nature lovers who pick up a
feather or two to bring home.  When I taught ornithology, I told my
students quite clearly that it was against the law.  I told them the
history and the reasons for the law.  Then I told them to make their own
decision.

*Michael H. Blust*
Peace Corps Volunteer, Mexico
Green Mountain College


On Wed, Sep 25, 2013 at 6:23 AM, Mitchell Harrison <[log in to unmask]>wrote:

> I pick-up feathers and I use them to engage and teach my students and
> daughter.  Fostering wonder in young people is an important aspect of
> preserving what we love into the future.  Let's use common sense folks.
>  Send the feds to get me if you must.
>
> Mitch Harrison
>
>
> ________________________________
>  From: Martha McClintock <[log in to unmask]>
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Sent: Monday, September 23, 2013 9:48 AM
> Subject: Re: [VTBIRD] Feather Atlas: useful link
>
>
> I said that I appreciate all the information that I get from the
> knowledgeable birders on VtBird and I got some info as a result of today's
> post.  Apparently, when I brought home five feathers that I  found when
> walking in the woods this summer, I have broken federal law.  Please be
> assured that the five feathers have already been returned to the woods
> (although not necessarily in the place where they were found) as I like to
> think of myself as a law abiding person.   My apologies and thanks,Sue, or
> letting me know.
>
> With embarrassment,
> Martha
>
>
> On Mon, Sep 23, 2013 at 8:27 AM, Martha McClintock
> <[log in to unmask]>wrote:
>
> > I enjoy the links, birding sites, and articles suggested by VtBirders and
> > hope that someone will enjoy knowing about this site as well.
> >
> >  As  I walk and enjoy all things outdoors (including birds!),  I
> sometimes
> > see a lost feather and have been collecting the interesting ones I have
> > found.  A website at http://www.fws.gov/lab/featheratlas/  is very
> useful
> > for identifying the feathers.  Yesterday, I found a very handsome ruffed
> > grouse tail feather that I could identify using the Feather Atlas.
> >
> > Martha
> > Westford
> >
>