A permit from the Service is required to possess (retain) an eagle found on Tribal land in Indian Country and permit conditions must be followed for that activity to be lawful. Bald and golden eagles are protected by federal law and certain activities like killing or selling an eagle are strictly prohibited. Collection of an eagle is also prohibited, and the permit referenced here will clearly describe the process to report a deceased eagle to law enforcement officials, and for Tribes to receive that eagle after investigative and other requirements are met. The Service will not charge an application fee for this permit, and information on how to obtain a permit is below.
Please contact your Regional Migratory Bird Permit Office for more information. Application and acquisition request forms can be found on this page with information about applying online.
Permit Details:
Application Fee: No Fee
Duration: No Expiration
Application review time: minimum 60 days
Application: Form 3-1552
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Instructions: None Available
Forms: Tribal Eagle Retention-Acquisition Form - Form 3-1591
Regulations: 50 CFR 22.60