This means that birds of these species can continue to receive rehabilitation should someone bring them to a wildlife rehab facility.
Jim Williams Wayzata Begin forwarded message: From: "Steve Hirsch" <[email protected]> Date: February 10, 2006 11:19:17 AM CST Subject: Status of House Sparrows and Starlings I wanted to let you know that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has decided not to change the status of house sparrows and starlings as part of our rulemaking process. This means that they will remain as unregulated nonnative species, so it will continue to be legal to possess and release them. These species will also continue to be unprotected, which means they can be taken at any time and by any legal method. I realize that this was an important issue for all of you and that there were divergent opinions on the best course of action. The DNR concluded that, while sparrows and starlings can harm bluebirds and other bird species, the relatively small number of them being released has no measurable affect on bird populations. In addition, sparrows and starlings are unprotected, which allows people to take these birds for any reason. Given these facts, it did not seem necessary for the DNR to have additional regulations for these two species. I want everyone to know that we valued their input and it was helpful in making a decision. I have tried to include everyone who commented on this issue in this message, but if you know of anyone I have missed or who would like to know what the final decision was, please feel free to forward this to them. Steve Hirsch DNR, Division of Ecological Services (651) 259-5106
