Florida seeks help to protect Painted and Indigo buntings

The state is asking people to keep their eyes open for people illegally trapping Painted and indigo buntings.

The two bird species breed in northern Florida, spend the winter primarily in southern Florida and can be found throughout much of the state during spring and fall migration.

Poachers illegally trap the birds to sell them.

Trapping the birds is a violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

The traps that are normally used are elaborate, large devices and can be found hanging from trees 2 to 4 feet above the ground in high grasses, where the wintering birds like to seek cover.

The traps are usually left for several hours before subjects check them.

People can anonymously report any violations to the FWC by calling the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922 or by email or text to Tip@MyFWC.com.

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