Living With Birds

female mallard with ducklings Birds play a vital role in Alaskan ecosystems: feeding on insects, pollinating plants, and dispersing seeds. Some birds are hunted for food while others count among the state's top predators. Birds also matter to the people of Alaska because they help define our culture and contribute to our economy.

Federal and state laws protect both migratory and non-migratory species. Most birds in Alaska fall under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), which makes it illegal to injure, capture, or kill migratory birds or to interfere with their nests when active. For example, if a bird builds a nest in an inconvenient place or in a location where birds and young will not be safe, the nest can be moved only if no eggs or young are in the nest.

photo of a boreal owl It is important to understand these laws before attempting to attract or deter birds. For tips on attracting chickadees to your birdfeeder, keeping geese off your lawn, or viewing birds without causing them stress, check out the following links: