Transportation of Eagle Items

The Canadian Wildlife Service (Environment Canada) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Department of the Interior) have reached an interim solution to expedite the transportation of eagle feathers and other parts across the U.S./Canada border. Prior to February 1, 2003, the U.S. Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940 prohibited all transportation of eagle feathers or parts into or out of the United States. The Act's protections have applied to Bald Eagles since 1940 and were expanded to include Golden Eagles in 1962.

This interim solution authorizes status Indians to transport these items to and from the United States for cultural and ceremonial purposes. Under the terms of this solution, individuals crossing the border with eagle items will be asked:

• to declare that they are transporting eagle items for cultural or ceremonial purposes;
• to present their Certificate of Indian Status (status card); and
• to complete a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service import/export form