Quick Answer
Yes, it is legal to own a Mississippi kite in most areas, but a permit may be required. Mississippi kites are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which regulates the capture, possession, transportation, sale, purchase, barter, exportation, and importation of migratory birds. To legally own a Mississippi kite, you must acquire the necessary state and federal permits. Even with permits, there are restrictions on trapping, keeping, and selling wild Mississippi kites.
Overview of the Mississippi Kite
The Mississippi kite (Ictinia mississippiensis) is a small raptor native to the southern United States. Some key facts about the Mississippi kite:
- Length: 14-15 inches
- Wingspan: 33-37 inches
- Coloring: Pale gray with darker gray on the wings and tail
- Distinctive forked tail
- Insectivorous – diet consists mainly of insects like cicadas, grasshoppers, and crickets
- Migratory – winters in South America and returns to breed in the southern U.S. in spring/summer
The Mississippi kite can be found in open country across the southern states from central California to South Carolina. It nests in tall trees and forages for insects in open fields or grasslands.
Mississippi Kite Legal Protections
The Mississippi kite is protected under the following federal laws:
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (MBTA) is one of the oldest wildlife protection laws in the U.S. It implements four major treaties that provide protection for migratory birds:
- The Canada Treaty (1916)
- The Mexico Treaty (1936)
- The Japan Treaty (1972)
- The Russia Treaty (1976)
Under the MBTA, it is unlawful to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill, possess, sell, purchase, barter, import, export, or transport any migratory bird, including feathers, parts, nests, or eggs, without a permit issued by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The Mississippi kite is protected under this act.
The Endangered Species Act
The Endangered Species Act of 1973 provides protection for endangered and threatened species and their habitats. The Mississippi kite is not currently listed under the Endangered Species Act.
State Laws
Some states have additional laws protecting migratory birds, including the Mississippi kite. It is important to check state regulations before attempting to trap, keep, or sell a Mississippi kite.
Permits Required to Own a Mississippi Kite
To legally capture, possess, or transport a Mississippi kite, permits are required from both state and federal wildlife agencies. Here are some common permits:
Federal Permits
- Migratory Bird Permit – Issued by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, required for trapping or capturing migratory birds.
- Rehabilitation Permit – Allows temporary possession of sick/injured birds for rehabilitation purposes before release back into the wild.
State Permits
- Collection Permit – Allows trapping/capturing birds for scientific collection or falconry.
- Captive Propagation Permit – For breeding captive birds.
- Exhibition Permit – For public display of live birds.
The application process for these permits can be extensive, requiring detailed statements of purpose, facilities inspections, reports, etc. Having the proper enclosures, equipment, avian expertise is necessary.
Restrictions on Trapping and Keeping Mississippi Kites
Even with proper permits, there are restrictions on trapping, keeping, and selling wild Mississippi kites:
- Only a limited number of birds may be trapped each year.
- Permanent possession is not allowed – wild-caught birds cannot be kept permanently.
- Birds must be released back into the wild after a temporary holding period.
- Profiting from the sale of wild-caught birds is not permitted.
- Only authorized and humane trapping methods may be used.
- Strict reporting and documentation requirements must be followed.
These restrictions aim to protect wild Mississippi kite populations from over-exploitation. While possessing Mississippi kites is legal with permits, permanent ownership of wild-caught birds is not.
Purchasing Captive-Bred Mississippi Kites
To permanently own a Mississippi kite as a pet or for falconry, a captive-bred bird must be purchased from an authorized and reputable breeder. Key considerations:
- Breeder must be properly permitted and licensed by state and federal agencies.
- Purchase paperwork should confirm bird is captive-bred, not wild-caught.
- Bird must be captive-bred within the U.S. – cannot be imported.
- Purchase of birds illegally trapped from the wild is strictly prohibited.
- Research breeder’s reputation and expertise before purchasing bird.
Properly bred and socialized Mississippi kites can be suitable pets or hunting birds. However, they require specialized care and housing. Buying from an ethical, responsible breeder is crucial.
Caring for a Mississippi Kite as a Pet or Falconry Bird
If acquiring a Mississippi kite legally, appropriate care is vital for the bird’s health and well-being in captivity:
Enclosure
- Minimum dimensions of 8 ft x 8 ft x 12 ft tall.
- Proper ventilation, temperature control, lighting.
- Opportunities for flying and exercising.
- Perches, nesting area.
Diet
- Whole prey like mice, chicks, quail.
- Insects like crickets, mealworms.
- Supplements like calcium and vitamins.
- Clean, fresh water.
Enrichment
- Toys, platforms, swings.
- Training, interaction, and handling.
- Opportunities for flying and bathing.
Veterinary Care
- Annual exams, bloodwork, treatments for parasites/infection.
- Care for any injuries/illness.
- Proper vaccines.
With meticulous care, Mississippi kites can live over 20 years in captivity. Proper facilities, husbandry, vet care, and expertise are essential.
Falconry with Mississippi Kites
The Mississippi kite is sometimes used in the practice of falconry, under special state and federal falconry permits. Considerations for flying a Mississippi kite for hunting:
- Very lightweight birds, best suited for catching small birds and insects.
- Not capable of bringing down larger prey like ducks or rabbits.
- Usually hunt from high soaring positions.
- More suitable for exhibiting hunting behaviors than providing game for food.
- Require very experienced falconers used to handling lightweight birds of prey.
While possible to use in falconry, the Mississippi kite tends to be delicate, challenging, and better suited as a display bird.
Population Status of the Mississippi Kite
The Mississippi kite has a large range but a relatively small global population. Here is a summary of its population and conservation status:
- Global population estimate: 150,000 to 499,999 mature individuals.
- Population trend: Decreasing.
- Threats: Habitat loss, pesticides, human disturbance of nest sites.
- IUCN Red List category: Least concern.
- Not listed under U.S. Endangered Species Act.
While still relatively common, ongoing threats to its habitat and nesting areas make continued conservation actions important for the Mississippi kite.
Conclusion
In summary, owning a Mississippi kite is legal with proper state and federal permits, but permanent possession of wild-caught birds is prohibited. Captive-bred birds can be purchased from reputable breeders to be kept as pets or falconry birds, but they have specialized care needs. As a declining species vulnerable to habitat loss, the Mississippi kite population warrants continued careful management and protection under wildlife laws. Responsible ownership and conservation practices are crucial for ensuring the future survival of these unique raptors.