Any properly accredited person of known scientific attainment desiring to collect wildlife, nests, or eggs from the wild for scientific or educational purposes must first obtain a Scientific Collection permit from the Wildlife and Heritage Service of the Department of Natural Resources. This permit is also required to capture, mark and release wildlife.

NOTE: If you are interested in the collection of FISH or other AQUATIC LIFE, please contact the Fishing and Boating Service by email at fishcollection.dnr@maryland.gov​.

Public educational institutions also need this permit to salvage wildlife and to maintain specimens for educational purposes.

Application must be made on a form provided by the Department. The application fee is $10.00. Each permit expires on December 31 in the year it was issued.

The permit becomes void on proof that the permit holder captured or killed any wildlife; took any nests or eggs for other than scientific or educational purposes; or, took or possessed any wildlife, nests, or eggs not authorized by the permit.

How To Apply

To apply for the Scientific Collection Permit, please download and print the application, and mail to:

Wildlife Permit Coordinator
MD DNR- Wildlife and Heritage Service
580 Taylor Ave., E-1
Annapolis MD 21401

Remember, the application must be returned along with the Application Fee of Natural Resources.

Application for
Scientific Collection Permit

Request by E-mail:
(include US Mailing Address)
customerservice@dnr.state.md.us

Request by Phone:
(410) 260-8540
Toll-free in Maryland:
1-877-620-8DNR [8367], Extension 8540
TTY: Maryland Relay via 1-800-735-2258 or 711

Request by Mail:
Wildlife Permit Coordinator
MD DNR- Wildlife and Heritage Service
580 Taylor Ave., E-1
Annapolis MD 21401