In the early 20th century, birds were being hunted for their feathers.  These feathers were used to decorate women's hats.  Some species with beautiful plumes, such as the Snowy Egret, had very low populations.

Fortunately, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 helped save many species of birds.  The Migratory Bird Treaty Act is a commitment by four countries to protect birds that are regularly found in each country.  These countries are: United States, Russia, Japan, and Mexico.  This act made it illegal to collect or posses any bird, feather, egg, or nest. 

Snowy Egret

Birds that are found in the United States that are not protected by any laws include the House Sparrow, Rock Pigeon, and European Starling. These three species are not native to our country.  They were brought here from Europe.

So if you find a beautiful feather laying on the ground what should you do?  The best thing is to pick it up, study and enjoy it, and then put it back where you found it.  The same thing goes for any  abandoned eggs or nests you find.  In order to keep any part of a bird, you need to have two special salvage permits.  One from the state where you are collecting birds, and the other from the federal government.