Most native birds in Houston are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Texas Parks and Wildlife Code Chapter 64. Killing, capturing, or disturbing nests, eggs, or feathers without a permit is illegal year-round.
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 protects more than one thousand species, and Texas Parks and Wildlife Code Chapter 64 reinforces protection statewide, covering songbirds, raptors, herons, egrets, and waterfowl. In Houston, this means homeowners cannot remove active nests, harm fledglings, or knock down rookeries during nesting season without a federal Migratory Bird Permit from US Fish and Wildlife Service and, where applicable, a TPWD permit. Tree trimming during peak nesting (roughly March through August) requires nest surveys. Window collisions remain a leading cause of bird mortality; Houston Audubon promotes Lights Out Houston to reduce migratory deaths during spring and fall. Native nongame species and feathers cannot be possessed without authorization.
Unpermitted take, disturbance, or possession of protected birds, nests, eggs, or feathers can result in MBTA misdemeanor fines up to fifteen thousand dollars per violation, Texas Parks and Wildlife citations, license revocation, and possible federal criminal charges.
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