Which act makes it unlawful to take migratory birds without a waiver?

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act is the legislation that makes it unlawful to take migratory birds without obtaining a specific waiver or permit. This act was enacted to fulfill the United States' obligations under various international treaties aimed at protecting migratory bird species that travel between nations. The law prohibits the hunting, capturing, killing, or possessing of migratory birds unless permission is granted through a proper permit system.

This act is crucial for conserving migratory bird populations and their habitats, as it helps regulate hunting seasons, limits the number of birds that can be taken, and establishes guidelines for taking birds during their migration periods. It is one of the primary tools used to ensure sustainable management of these species, reflecting the commitment to preserving biodiversity and ecosystem health.