How to Identify an Eagle Feather

An eagle feather is a symbol of great honor in many cultures. It is important to know how to properly identify an eagle feather so that you can ensure that you are adhering to the laws and regulations that protect eagles and their feathers.

Laws and Regulations

In the United States, the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act prohibits the possession of eagle feathers without a permit. It is illegal to possess, sell, barter, trade, or offer to sell, purchase, or transport any bald or golden eagle, alive or dead, or any part, nest, or egg of any such eagle, or any product made from any such eagle. Violation of this law could result in civil penalties of up to $100,000 and criminal penalties of up to two years in prison and/or a fine of up to $250,000.

Feather Identification

Eagle feathers are large and easily identifiable. The wingspan of an adult bald eagle is approximately 2.3 meters, and a golden eagle’s wingspan is approximately 2.6 meters. The feathers of a bald eagle are mostly brown, with white markings on the underside. The feathers of a golden eagle have a darker brown hue and have more blackish markings. The tail feathers of both species are white with a black tip.

The tail feathers of a bald eagle are longer than those of a golden eagle. The longest feathers are located in the center of the tail and are known as the “train feathers”. The train feathers of a bald eagle can be up to 30 centimeters in length, while the train feathers of a golden eagle can be up to 25 centimeters in length.

Eagle feathers can also be identified by the shape of their barbs. The barbs are the small projections that extend from the quill. The barbs of an eagle feather are curved inwards, giving the feather a “V” shape. This is in contrast to the barbs of other birds, which are typically straight or curved outwards.

Conclusion

Identifying an eagle feather is important for adhering to the laws and regulations set forth by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. To properly identify an eagle feather, you should look for a large wingspan, white markings on the underside of the feathers, a black tip on the tail feathers, and curved barbs on the quill. By following these steps, you can ensure that you are properly respecting and protecting eagles and their feathers.