1. (1) A raptor not native to Montana or a hybrid raptor may not be released into the wild, but may be transferred to another falconry permittee.

2. (2) A permittee must have permission from the department to release a captive-bred raptor that is a native species to Montana.

   1. (a) The raptor must be hacked to the wild at an appropriate time of year and location;
   2. (b) the falconry band must be removed; and
   3. (c) the release must be reported by submitting a paper form 3-186A to the department or by submitting the information electronically as authorized by the department.

3. (3) A raptor taken from the wild that is a native species to Montana may be released.

   1. (a) The raptor must be released to the wild at an appropriate time of year and location;
   2. (b) the falconry band must be removed; and
   3. (c) the release must be reported by submitting a paper form 3-186A to the department or by submitting the information electronically as authorized by the department.
4. (4) Hybrid raptors may not be permanently released to the wild.

Authorizing statute(s): 87-5-204, MCA

Implementing statute(s): 87-5-204, MCA

History: NEW, 1992 MAR p. 2381, Eff. 10/30/92; AMD, 2009 MAR p. 1470, Eff. 8/28/09.