Restrictions on Hunter Harvested Wild Bird Game Meat from Canada

Stakeholder Alert:  Restrictions on Hunter Harvested Wild Bird Game Meat from Canada 

Issued: September 2, 2022 
Effective: September 2, 2022 

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been detected in both wild birds and poultry in Canada. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency have a zoning agreement in place to reduce the movement restrictions for trade in poultry and poultry products. However, these zones do not apply to wildlife. 

Hunter-harvested wild game bird trophies entering the United States from Canada must be fully finished, or accompanied by a VS import permit, or consigned directly to a USDA Approved Establishment. Hunters may find an approved taxidermy establishment by visiting the Veterinary Services Process Streamlining (VSPS) search page and searching for a taxidermist with the HPAI product code in your state. 

Hunter-harvested unprocessed wild game bird meat/carcasses, originating from or transiting Canada, will not be permitted to enter the United States regardless of the Canadian province from which the bird was harvested. APHIS is aware of the impact this will have on hunting season and will provide updates if new information is received. 

For any questions regarding import of animal products and by-products, please contact Animal Product Imports at 301-851-3300 or send an email to APIE@usda.gov.