Bird Skins with Feathers or Down; Feather Powder and Waste

Yes. Depending on the species, imports of bird skins with feathers may require CITES permits or be restricted under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. USFWS enforces these requirements at the port of entry, and documentation of species identity and legal origin is essential. Consult a licensed customs broker and verify species-specific permit requirements before shipment.

Feather meal — a hydrolyzed, ground product — falls under 0505902020 within heading 050590 because it has been processed beyond simple cleaning or preservation. Cleaned, intact stuffing feathers belong in heading 050510. The degree of processing and the resulting physical form are the key classification dividers between the two headings.