Maine § 4012. - Cruelty to birds
Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 4012. — Cruelty to birds, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4012.. Cruelty to birds
1. Cruelty to birds. A person is guilty of cruelty to birds if that person:
A. Keeps or uses any live pigeon, fowl or other bird for a target or to be shot at, either for amusement or as a test of skill in marksmanship; [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).]
B. Shoots at any bird or is present as a party, umpire or judge at a shooting; or [PL 1987, c. 383, §3 (NEW).]
C. Rents any building, shed, room, yard, field or premises or knowingly allows the use of the same for the purposes of paragraphs A and B. [PL 1997, c. 690, §45 (AMD).]
2. Construction. This section may not be construed to prohibit the shooting of wild game in its wild state or the shooting of birds at field trials under the supervision of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in accordance with Title 12, chapter 915, subchapter 13.
3. Affirmative defense. It is an affirmative defense to this section that the conduct involved the use of live animals in the training of other animals in accordance with the laws of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Title 12, Part 13.
Source: official Maine text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 4012.
What does Maine Revised Statutes § 4012. cover?
Section 4012. ("Cruelty to birds") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maine § 4012.?
A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 4012." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maine law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.
How does Maine § 4012. apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.