Eagle Aviary

Yakama Nation Eagle Aviary is a sanctuary for non-releasable eagles, honoring their cultural and spiritual significance to the Yakama people. Dedicated to conservation and cultural preservation, the aviary provides a safe haven for these majestic birds while supporting traditional practices and education.

Check out the new addition to our family!

National Eagle Feather Distribution

Our cultural traditions often involve the use of eagle feathers. Eagle aviaries allow the humane collection of eagle feathers through molting and the National Eagle Repository in Colorado distributes feathers and parts to Native Americans. Yakama tribal members can contact the Wildlife Program (ext. 6329) for information on how to apply for eagle feathers from the National Eagle Repository.

Non-Eagle Feathers

Non-eagle feathers are available for enrolled members of a tribe. Besides the eagle repository mentioned above, there are two places tribal members can go to obtain feathers of migratory birds that aren’t Bald or Golden Eagles.

Our feather distribution process

Print and completely fill out the attached application for 2023 graduating seniors. Please send feather applications to YNFeathers@Yakama.com. Copies of the application will be made available at the Wildlife main office.

At this time, eagle feathers can only be distributed to Yakama-enrolled graduating seniors.

Eagles are protected under two federal laws: the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. No person including Native Americans are allowed to capture, or kill eagles without a permit from the USFWS. Eagles are also protected under the Yakama Law and Order Code.

If you suspect or have any information about poaching or illegally harvested eagle parts, please contact local authorities.

Future Aviary Plans:

The Yakama Nation Eagle Aviary is working on expanding our infrastructure. The future site will feature a classroom, three large eagle enclosures, side mews, and a food prep area with a walk in freezer. Two enclosures will be for free flighted eagles, the last one will be for non-flighted eagles. With a potential capacity to house thirty eagles. Attached to the large enclosures will be a row of thirteen smaller enclosures for program birds, and isolation areas.