Birds of Prey Feathers Laws and Possession

Birds of Prey have long been prized by Native Americans in story and rituals. Eagle Feathers, specifically Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle are used in many of their ceremonies, and the spiritual significance of these feathers is deeply rooted in Native Culture.

There are many laws protecting Birds of Prey, and it is illegal to own or possess any feathers or other parts of Birds of Prey unless you have a permit. This includes Natives, they too need a permit.

Possession of Eagles Parts including Feathers:

There is only one place in the United States that someone can request the right to own or possess various parts from Eagles including Feathers and that is the National Eagle Repository. Even Native Americans have to have a permit to own or possess Eagles Feathers.

Migratory Bird Treaty Act

"Except as allowed by implementing regulations, this act makes it illegal to pursue, hunt, kill, capture, possess, buy, sell, purchase, or barter any migratory bird, including feathers or other parts, nests, eggs, or migratory bird products."

International CITES treaty

Birds of Prey are protected species around the world. They are some of the approximately 33,000 species of animals and plants protected by the International CITES treaty (the Convention on Illegal Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).

There are many Legends, Myths and Superstitions of Eagles throughout time, from Greek Mythology to present day. These range from legends of babies found in or under eagles nests and raised by royalty to eagles protecting whole villages from starvation.

The ancient Griffin found on many European Churches was one of the earliest known eagles, and all through history eagles have been portrayed by royalty, governments, cultures and entrepreneurs for it's strength, courage and freedom.

Not everyone is lucky enough to see Eagles in the Wild, and it is truly fascinating watching them. There are a few web-cams that are set up to watch eagle nests, and the Eagles of Hornby Island  is one that millions of people around the world watched. We saw the baby eaglets hatching, and watched as both mother and father eagle took care of them. From birth to Fledgling, watching these eagles was riveting.

I have written more about Eagles, Myths, Legends and Superstitions here, that includes links to various sites. Also included are Myths, Facts, and Superstitions of Eagles from around the World. These are truly interesting.

My interest in Eagle's Feathers, along with all feathers of Birds of Prey stem from needing to know which feathers are appropriate and legal to use when making Dreamcatchers. If you don't know what a Dreamcatcher is, you will find a link to What is a Dreamcatcher and How to Make one in the Eagle article linked above.

Note: All Photos were taken by Kathy McGraw except the Native American Fancy Dancer which was taken by Corina McGraw

I would like to leave you with this thought: Thank the creator for the beautiful day, and everything in it !