Eagles are directly protected under two
federal laws
: the Bald and
golden eagle protection act
and the
migratory bird treaty act
. These laws generally prohibit the possession, use, and sale of eagle feathers and parts as well as a number of other activities.
How much is an eagles feather worth?
A whole, young golden eagle sells for as much as $1,200, and a single golden eagle tail feather in mint condition can fetch more than $250.
Is having bald eagle feathers illegal?
According to federal law, it’s illegal to take a feather shed from an eagle The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940 prohibits the possession of eagle feathers by non-
native americans
. Anyone convicted of violating the law could face a fine of up to $100,000 and a year in jail.
How can I obtain an eagle feather?
You can only request Bald and Golden Eagle feathers from the
national eagle repository
, located in Colorado It is a separate process to request eagle feathers, which also includes completing an application. You cannot receive eagle feathers from the non-eagle feather repositories.
Can I keep an eagle feather if I find one?
The law allows Native Americans to wear, use, inherit, or even give feathers to other Native Americans. However, they cannot give the feathers to non-Native Americans. So, if you ever see a bird feather, especially an eagle feather, leave it alone, unless you’re a Native American.
Can anyone own an eagle feather?
Under the current language of the eagle feather law, individuals of certifiable Native American ancestry enrolled in a federally recognized tribe are legally authorized to obtain eagle feathers Unauthorized persons found with an eagle or its parts in their possession can be fined up to $250,000.
What is the fine for having a bald eagle feather?
The maximum fine for a first offense is $100,000 , according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries began its investigation after learning that Smith had been photographed with a dead bald eagle, Brown’s news release said.
Should you keep feathers you find?
Even though it’s usually safe to pick up bird feathers, it’s important not to take them home to keep Native birds in the United States are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which prohibits possession of any part of these birds, including the feathers.
Can you sell eagle feathers?
” The buying and selling of the feathers of bald eagles, our nation’s symbol, is illegal and those who choose to ignore those laws will be prosecuted,” said John C. Cruden, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division.
What does finding an eagle feather mean?
The wings of an Eagle represent the balance needed between male and female, each one dependent upon the strengths and abilities of the other. When one receives an Eagle feather, that person is being acknowledged with gratitude, love and ultimate respect.
Is it illegal to pick up an eagle feather in Canada?
You are correct about not taking your eagle feathers into the United States. It is prohibited under US laws protecting eagles. However, you can take them to other parts of Canada because you are the legal owner under Ontario law.
Can you own an eagle?
In 1940, Congress passed a law to protect our national symbol, the Bald Eagle. This act, called the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, made it illegal to possess, sell, hunt, or even offer to sell, hunt or possess bald eagles This includes not only living eagles, but also their feathers, nests, eggs, or body parts.
What happens if you have a bald eagle feather?
If you have a feather or are trying to sell an eagle feather you are in violation of U.S. Federal Law. You can be charged with a misdemeanor and fined up to $100,000.
Why is the eagle feathers sacred?
Many Indigenous cultures believe the eagle is sacred because it flies closest to the Creator It symbolizes respect, honour, strength, courage and wisdom. In Saskatchewan, its feathers also symbolize a step forward, a new chapter in the ongoing story of Reconciliation.
What bird feathers can I keep?
You are permitted to collect feathers from non-native birds, such as European starlings and house sparrows, and domesticated birds such as turkeys and chickens , but all native, migratory birds, and there are more than 1,000 species on the list, are protected.
Is it illegal to collect feathers in America?
The possession of feathers and other parts of native North American birds without a permit is prohibited by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA).
References
https://www.nativeamericahumane.org/uploads/6/4/2/5/64257269/feather_repository_handout_for_website_5-2-19.pdf
https://www.amazon.com/eagle-feathers/s?k=eagle+feathers
https://www.indianhealthcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Inter-Tribal-Resources-Possession-Of-Eagle-Feathers-Fact-Sheet.pdf