Section 250-RICR-60-00-7.3 - BackgroundA. Raptors are highly regulated species under various International, National, and State Agreements, Laws, and Regulations. In the United States, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (the "Service") has been delegated authority for the protection of raptors.B. As raptors are used for the sport of "Falconry" the Service has exercised its obligation under the law, through strict regulations. A dual State/Federal permitting system has been in place since implementation of Federal regulations governing falconry in 1995.C. Beginning January 1, 2014, the Service discontinued issuing permits for individuals to possess raptors in order to engage in "Falconry" but has continued to enforce its oversight and enforcement responsibilities through individual State falconry programs, provided the State programs have met Federal approval.D. Consistent with the requirements of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, 16 U.S.C. §§ 703-712, as amended, these Rules and Regulations have been reviewed and determined to meet or exceed the standards imposed by corresponding federal regulations.E. These Regulations hereby adopt and incorporate [Rare Native Animals of Rhode Island(2006)] by Rhode Island Natural History Survey, not including any further editions or amendments thereof and only to the extent that the provisions therein are not inconsistent with these Regulations.250 R.I. Code R. 250-RICR-60-00-7.3
Amended effective 7/31/2019
Amended effective 7/31/2020
Amended effective 7/31/2021
Amended effective 8/8/2024