The first Duck Stamp was designed by J.N. "Ding" Darling, who was the director of the Bureau of Biological Survey at the time.

98% of the purchase price of Duck Stamps goes directly to habitat conservation through the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund.

Waterfowl hunters aged 16 and older are required to purchase a Duck Stamp, along with state licenses and permits.

Yes, anyone can purchase a Duck Stamp to support habitat conservation, bird watching, or entry into national wildlife refuges.

The Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023 allows individuals to carry an electronic stamp for the entire waterfowl hunting season, among other updates to the program.

Wetlands acquired with Duck Stamp dollars help purify water, aid in flood control, reduce soil erosion, and provide habitat for wildlife.

No, Duck Stamps cannot be used as postage; they are solely for hunting, conservation, and entry into wildlife refuges.

The Junior Duck Stamp Program is a conservation education initiative that teaches students about waterfowl and habitat conservation through art.

Any artist aged 18 or older can enter the Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest, which is the only juried art competition sponsored by the federal government.

Duck Stamps are valid for one year, starting from the first day of sale, usually on or around the first of July.

The base price of a Duck Stamp is $25.00, plus shipping and handling.

Duck Stamps can be purchased by clicking here.

The design for the Duck Stamp is chosen through an annual art contest, where artists submit their work for consideration.

The Duck Stamp Licensing Program allows the stamp image to be featured on various products such as t-shirts, calendars, mugs, and blankets.

The Duck Stamp Program has been successful in conserving more than 6 million acres of wetland habitat for 90 years.

The E-Stamp Program allows individuals to purchase a Duck Stamp online and immediately use a printable receipt as proof of purchase while waiting for the physical stamp to arrive by mail.

The Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest is held annually, allowing artists to submit their work for consideration as the design for the following year's stamp.

Yes, Duck Stamps are often purchased by stamp collectors for their collectible value and to support conservation efforts.

A Duck Stamp serves multiple purposes:

• It acts as a hunting license for waterfowl hunters aged 16 and older.
• It serves as a conservation tool, with 98% of the purchase price going directly to habitat conservation efforts.
• A Duck Stamp also grants free entry into any national wildlife refuge that charges an entry fee, allowing access to wildlife viewing, photography, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
• Additionally, Duck Stamps can be collected as valuable and prized works of art, and their image can be featured on various products through the Duck Stamp Licensing Program.

There are over 560 National Wildlife Refuges in the United States, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These refuges provide vital habitat for wildlife and offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, including bird watching, hiking, fishing, and photography.

No, Duck Stamps are only required for entry into national wildlife refuges that charge an entry fee. However, purchasing a Duck Stamp supports conservation efforts at all refuges.

Yes, Duck Stamps can be purchased as gifts for others. They make great gifts for hunters, bird watchers, conservation enthusiasts, and stamp collectors.

If you are using the Duck Stamp for hunting or entry into a national wildlife refuge, it is recommended to sign the stamp to make it valid. However, for collectible purposes, signing may decrease its value.

Duck Stamps are specifically for entry into national wildlife refuges. They are not valid for entry into state parks or other protected areas unless specified otherwise.

Yes, Duck Stamps can be purchased online here, allowing anyone, whether they are located inside the U.S. or not to support habitat conservation efforts inside the U.S.

If you forget your physical Duck Stamp while hunting, you may be able to use an E-Stamp, which provides immediate proof of purchase and is valid for 45 days while you wait for the physical stamp to arrive by mail. However, starting in 2026, the Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023 will allow all users to have an electronic stamp only (on their phone or mobile device), instead of a physical Duck Stamp.

Yes, bulk purchases of Duck Stamps can be made for groups or organizations interested in supporting conservation efforts or distributing stamps to members.

Duck Stamps typically expire after one year from the date of purchase. However, check the expiration date printed on the stamp or consult with the issuing authority for confirmation.

No, Duck Stamps must be current and valid for the hunting or entry season in which they are being used. Using an expired Duck Stamp may result in penalties.

While not necessary for hunting at any age, the Junior Duck Stamp is significant as a conservation education initiative for youth by raising funds for conservation education programs through the sale of the Junior Duck Stamp. The program encourages students to learn about wetland conservation and waterfowl through art. By participating, students develop artistic skills, gain knowledge about wildlife, and foster a sense of environmental stewardship. Each year, a contest is held to promote and celebrate student artistic expressions of nature. Winning artwork becomes the official Junior Duck Stamp, symbolizing the next generation's commitment to wildlife conservation. Proceeds from stamp sales support conservation education programs nationwide.

To support this incredibly important program and purchase your own Junior Duck Stamp for just $5.00, please click here.

No, the Junior Duck Stamp Program is specifically designed for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. However, adults can support the program by encouraging youth participation and purchasing Junior Duck Stamps.

Educators can integrate the Junior Duck Stamp Program into science, art, and environmental education curricula. The program provides free educational resources, including lesson plans, activity guides, and wildlife conservation materials tailored for various grade levels.

Yes, Junior Duck Stamp winners have the opportunity to showcase their artwork at various events, including wildlife festivals, conservation conferences, and art exhibitions. Their artwork may also be featured in publications and online platforms.

No, Junior Duck Stamps cannot be used as postage. They are collectible stamps and serve as a symbol of conservation education and youth involvement in wildlife conservation.

Participation in the Junior Duck Stamp Program offers students a range of benefits, including enhanced environmental awareness, improved artistic skills, opportunities for recognition and awards, and the development of leadership and teamwork abilities through collaborative projects and competitions.

Individuals interested in supporting Duck Stamp advocacy and conservation efforts can join organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, National Wildlife Federation, and other conservation groups that work to protect wetlands and wildlife habitats.