The Ornithological Council has developed a template for institutions and IACUCs to adapt as needed, setting forth an institutional policy for wildlife and field research. If an institution does not already have a policy setting forth policies and procedures, this template provides a place to start. Institutions are encouraged to make any changes or modifications necessary for the policy to fit within their animal care and research policies.
Download the template here.
Which federal rules and regulations apply to a particular wildlife research project depend on several factors, including the funding supporting that research and the agreements that the institution has with various federal agencies. IACUCs, institutional representatives, and researchers are encouraged to contact the OC if they have questions about the adoption of this policy.
This document will be regularly updated based on input from the community. We welcome your comments. Suggestions for substantive changes will be reviewed and, if accepted, incorporated into the template. Contact the OC here.