Which federal law is designed to protect most species of wild birds?

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) is the correct answer because it specifically addresses the protection of migratory birds in the United States and establishes a framework for safeguarding these species from hunting, capturing, or killing without a permit. The MBTA was enacted in 1918 and is based on treaties between the United States and other countries regarding the preservation of migratory bird populations. This law covers a wide range of species that migrate across state and national borders, ensuring their protection throughout their migratory routes.

In contrast, while the Endangered Species Act does offer protections, it focuses on species that are at risk of extinction rather than covering the broader category of migratory birds. The Wildlife Conservation Act, though important for wildlife in general, does not specifically target migratory birds in the same way. The Bird Protection Law is less recognized and might not exist under such a formal title, making it a less relevant choice in this context. The MBTA remains a key piece of legislation for the conservation of migratory bird species, and that specificity makes it the best answer.