Which of the following birds are not protected in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, certain bird species are protected under state and federal law due to their ecological importance and declining populations. However, some birds are classified as non-native or abundant and are not protected, allowing for management measures to be taken without special permits.

The correct answer highlights pigeons, house sparrows, and European starlings, all of which are considered non-native species in the U.S. and have adapted to urban environments. These birds are typically abundant, leading to their designation as unprotected wildlife. This status allows individuals to manage their populations without the constraints found with protected species, facilitating pest control measures in both urban and agricultural contexts.

The other options include species that are protected and thus cannot be hunted or harmed without proper permits. Blue jays, crows, robins, red-tailed hawks, and eagles are all protected, as they either fall under state protection laws or the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which provides legal protections to many native birds. Recognizing which birds are protected versus unprotected is key in wildlife management and conservation efforts.