Thursday, February 13, 2025
spot_imgspot_img

Top 5 This Week

spot_imgspot_img

Related Posts

The Sacred Role of Eagle Feathers in Powwows Threatened by Poachers Exploiting High Demand


America’s golden eagles are facing a rising threat from a black market for their feathers used in Native American powwows and ceremonies, according to wildlife officials, researchers, and tribal members. The government’s response includes a crackdown on illegal trafficking of dead eagles and a program that distributes eagle feathers and parts lawfully to tribal members. However, the lawful program has a backlog, leading to an increase in illegal killings of young golden eagles for their valuable feathers. The eagles are already facing pressure from poisonings, climate change, and collisions with wind turbines.

Recent investigations have led to convictions of individuals involved in killing thousands of bald and golden eagles for their feathers, which were sold in the U.S. and abroad. The increase in demand for eagle feathers due to more elaborate powwows and competitive events has created an opportunity for criminals to exploit Native Americans trying to keep traditions alive. Eagle feathers play a significant role in Native American culture, being used in ceremonies such as graduations, marriages, and burials.

The demand for eagle parts and feathers exceeds the supply available through legal channels, leading to illegal activities. The case of a large poaching operation in Montana that involved thousands of bird killings illustrates the severity of the issue. Investigations into eagle trafficking heavily rely on information from tribes and the public, as well as intelligence gathered to target larger trafficking groups.

The National Eagle Repository in Colorado provides dead eagles and parts for free to tribal members but struggles to meet the demand for wings, tails, and whole birds. The backlog of requests for eagle parts, particularly young golden eagles, is significant, and wait times can be several years. Despite efforts to combat illegal killings and preserve golden eagles, the issue persists, threatening the survival of these majestic birds.

Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Popular Articles