How should you proceed if you trap a raptor that is not authorized?

Releasing an unauthorized raptor immediately is the proper action to take to ensure compliance with wildlife laws and regulations. This response is crucial as it demonstrates a commitment to conservation and the protection of wild bird populations. Unauthorized trapping can have legal ramifications, and the best course of action is to minimize any potential harm to the bird and avoid further legal complications.

If a raptor was trapped without proper authorization, keeping it or attempting to care for it could lead to issues, both ethically and legally, as it may require special permits to possess or rehabilitate. Contacting authorities is important if the bird needs assistance or if there are uncertainties about its status, but the priority should always be to release the bird back into its natural environment as soon as it is safe to do so. Keeping the bird for personal use is not only unethical but also illegal under wildlife protection laws.