What the state’s own agencies say, with sources. Not legal advice.
Can you keep pet ducks in Maryland?
Maryland's Department of Agriculture says anyone who keeps poultry in the state must register the birds with the department, and describes the registration as free and confidential. The requirement is tied to a section of the state's Agriculture Article. The premises form can be returned by email, mail or fax. The page does not spell out whether pet ducks are treated differently from chickens, and it points to separate national poultry improvement plan provisions for hobbyist waterfowl. If you are unsure how your ducks are classified, ask the Animal Health Program directly.
Checked 2026-10-26 · mda.maryland.gov
Avian flu rules for backyard flocks in Maryland
Maryland's Department of Agriculture tells backyard flock owners to phone its office if they suspect highly pathogenic avian influenza in their birds. When the disease is confirmed, state officials quarantine the affected premises. The department's guidance for owners includes registering flocks and washing hands before and after handling live poultry. Check the department's avian influenza pages for current restrictions before moving or showing birds.
Checked 2026-10-26 · news.maryland.gov
Finding an avian vet in Maryland
Maryland's Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, part of the state Department of Agriculture, runs a licensee lookup with separate listings for veterinarians and veterinary hospitals. It is useful for confirming that a clinic or practitioner holds a current license before you book. The board does not describe a search by species or location, so call clinics to ask whether they see waterfowl or avian patients. No state avian or exotics service at a university veterinary school could be confirmed.
Checked 2026-10-26 · mda.maryland.gov
State contacts
The Maryland Department of Agriculture's Animal Health Program, at its Annapolis headquarters, is the main point of contact for poultry and bird disease questions. It lists an office line, a toll-free line, a fax, and an emergency after-hours number, with daytime hours of 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The state also operates animal health diagnostic laboratories in Frederick and Salisbury. Suspected avian influenza in a backyard flock is reported to the department by phone.
Checked 2026-10-26 · mda.maryland.gov
