Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Nevada wildlife law protect most wild birds in Las Vegas, prohibiting nest disturbance during breeding season and limiting tree trimming, with NDOW handling violations alongside city wildlife-feeding bans.
Las Vegas residents must comply with the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Nevada Revised Statutes 503 protecting non-game birds. Active nests of native species - including hummingbirds, mockingbirds, doves, and raptors - cannot be removed, damaged, or relocated during breeding season, generally February through August. Tree-trimming guidance follows NDOW recommendations to inspect for nests before pruning palms and large desert trees. The city's Title 6 wildlife-feeding ban also covers pigeons and house sparrows because of public-health and roof-damage concerns. Pigeons, starlings, and English sparrows are non-protected invasive species; native birds remain fully protected.
Federal MBTA fines up to $15,000 per take, NRS 503 misdemeanor charges, and city citations for unauthorized tree work or wildlife feeding leading to roost nuisances.
See how Las Vegas's bird protection rules stack up against other locations.
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