(1) No person shall possess, import, sell or otherwise transfer, or release live mallards (Anas platyrhynchos), except as provided in this section and other applicable rules of the Commission. For the purposes of this section, “”mallard”” includes all Anas platyrhynchos and fertile hybrids thereof except the white variety of Anas platyrhynchos commonly known as “”Pekin”” ducks.
    (2) Live mallards may only be sold or transferred to, imported by, or possessed by:
    (a) Persons licensed pursuant to Florida Statutes § 379.3712, and permitted to release mallards pursuant to Fl. Admin. Code R. 68A-12.010;
    (b) Persons permitted to possess mallards pursuant to Rule 68A-6.002, 68A-9.002, or 68A-9.006, F.A.C., or
    (c) Persons licensed pursuant to Section 379.2525 or 379.3761, F.S.
    (3) Live mallards may only be sold by persons licensed pursuant to Section 379.2525 or 379.3761, F.S.
    (4) Mallards shall be caged as specified in Rules 68A-6.0023 and 68A-6.004, F.A.C. In addition, persons other than those permitted pursuant to Fl. Admin. Code R. 68A-12.010, shall meet the following requirements:
    (a) All cages and enclosures containing mallards capable of flight shall be covered at the top to prevent escape; and,
    (b) East of Jefferson County, cages and enclosures containing flightless mallards shall be covered at the top to prevent interaction with wild waterfowl.
    (5) Mallards may only be released pursuant to Fl. Admin. Code R. 68A-12.010, or for bona fide dog training, raptor training for falconry purposes, or field trials provided that persons releasing mallards for dog training, raptor training, or field trials shall return the birds to possession or caging as soon as possible after release.
Rulemaking Authority Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const. Law Implemented Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const. History-New 7-1-04.