bb dragged away in handcuffs?

Ah, apparently not.

This feather, that I collected (from the ground by my gym)

for the amusement of my (indoor) kitties, is not, I repeat,

not from a species protected by the migratory bird treaty act (MBTA).

Phew!

A kind facebook reader of my babblings had gently pointed out that

by collecting said feather I was breaking the law which,

oh-so-conveniently, I'd COMPLETELY forgotten about. 

Despite being a biologist. Yeah. A professional. Paid to know these things. Oops.

See, we're not allowed to have parts of any birds or their nests, etc.,

if they're protected by the MBTA. You, me, et al.

And most birds you'll see are on that list.

However, just figured out that this feather (and the others like it)

comes from a TURKEY!

You can see those feathers when the males drag their wings

in full display-to-the-ladies mode.

amazing photo by Yathin S Krishnappa

And turkeys are a) not native to this part of the U.S. and b) not migratory.

Though heaven knows I'd love to see them try.

So I did not break the law.

By total chance.

Which is fortunate, 'cause since then I forgot again,

and collected another big fatty from my neighborhood for the kitties.

So, I solemnly swear I'll be more aware of environmental laws in future,

and not allow my love for amused kitties to blind me.

=)

xobb