Pennsylvania § 2164 - Unlawful taking and possession of protected birds.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 2164 — Unlawful taking and possession of protected birds., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 2164. Unlawful taking and possession of protected birds.
(a) General rule.--Except as otherwise provided in this title, it is unlawful for any person at any time to kill or attempt or conspire to kill or take or attempt, assist, aid or abet in the taking of any protected birds or possess protected birds, or any part thereof.
(b) Hawks, falcons or owls.--It is lawful for protected hawks, falcons or owls to be taken and possessed for use in falconry. Protected hawks, falcons or owls shall not be bought, sold or bartered, or offered for sale or barter, or held in possession for sale or barter.
(c) Mounting or retention in possession.--Except pursuant to a permit issued by the commission, no protected bird or part thereof shall be mounted or retained in possession.
(d) Penalties.--
(1) A violation of this section is a summary offense of the fifth degree for each protected bird or part thereof.
(2) A violation of this section relating to birds which are listed as threatened or endangered is, in addition to any other penalties, a misdemeanor.
(3) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2), a violation of this section relating to birds listed under 16 U.S.C. § 668 (relating to bald and golden eagles) that results in the killing of a bald eagle or golden eagle is, in addition to any other penalties, a summary offense punishable by a fine of $2,000.
(e) Contraband.--Any game or wildlife or egg possessed by any person contrary to this section is contraband.
(Oct. 24, 2012, P.L.1205, No.150, eff. 60 days; May 8, 2024, P.L.49, No.13, eff. 60 days)
2024 Amendment. Act 13 added subsec. (d)(3).
2012 Amendment. Act 150 amended subsec. (d)(2).
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 2164
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 2164 cover?
Section 2164 ("Unlawful taking and possession of protected birds.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania § 2164?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 2164" (Pennsylvania). 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 Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 2164 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.