2025 Montana Migratory Bird Stamp contest opens

HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking submissions for the 2025 Montana Migratory Bird Stamp contest.  

This is the second year of the new Montana Migratory Bird Stamp program. In 2024, Florida artist John Nelson Harris won with his painting of a pintail. The first year of the new program saw more than 70 submissions from artists around the country.  

“We’re excited to see the interest this contest has with artists,” said FWP Director Dustin Temple. “We will continue to use the Montana Migratory Bird Stamp as a tool to generate awareness in the importance of wetland conservation and restoration around the state.” 

The 2025 Montana Migratory Bird Stamp contest will be open through Jan. 31. The Wetlands Protection Advisory Council will select the winning art in early February.  

Details on contest rules and entry information can be found here. The winning artist will receive a $2,000 cash prize and be featured on promotional materials throughout 2025.  

Wetlands are critical for many wildlife and aquatic species, as well providing critical ecosystem functions like flood control, groundwater recharge and water purification. FWP’s Migratory Bird Wetland Program helps landowners and other conservation partners develop and fund projects that protect, conserve, enhance or create high-quality wetland habitat.  

The 2025 Montana Migratory Bird Stamp will not be required to hunt migratory birds in Montana. To hunt migratory birds, hunters will need a current Montana migratory bird license and their federal duck stamp, the same as in years past.   

However, those who purchase a Montana migratory bird license will receive a free collectable sticker showing the winning artwork, information about the Migratory Bird Wetland Program and information about how to make additional contributions. Purchasing a Montana migratory bird license is a great way to support wetland habitat conservation. FWP will work with Montana’s Outdoor Legacy Foundation and other partners to provide other ways to help support wetlands conservation. More information will be provided on donation opportunities in the coming months.  

For more information on the contest, contact Greg Lemon at glemon@mt.gov. For more information on the Migratory Bird Wetland Program, click here.