DONATE FEATHERS

Donating your bird's feathers to Feathers For Native Americans is possibly the most valuable thing you can do with them. Every feather donated, from the tail to the down, is used, whether in regalia for a ceremony, art or a crafted piece. Feathers For Native Americans sends the feathers to Native Americans on an as-requested basis, and we also cover the cost of shipping to their final destination. We do not offer postage reimbursement for bird keepers at this time, but would like to at some point.

Can I Donate Feathers From My Pet Bird?

Yes! Please donate your pet's feathers! That's how we got involved in this. (Our macaw's name is Jazz. She's 28 years old, and she's been part of our family for six years.)

Can I Donate Feathers From ANY Bird?

***NO!***

***Feathers from Raptors (such as Eagles and Hawks) or Migratory Birds (such as Blue Jays and Cardinals) are illegal to possess or distribute under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Endangered Species Act and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.***

We also do not accept chicken feathers. (Although they are very good birds, and I personally think their feathers are very pretty, we do not want to send them as that would be perceived as an insult in some native cultures.)

Feathers from Wild and Domestic Turkeys, Guinea, Peacock, Macaw and other types of captive-raised birds like Parrots, Cockatoos, Cockatiels, Parakeets and etc. from the United States are all acceptable.

My Bird has a LOT of feathers; which ones can be used?

ALL OF THEM! Native Americans can use every feather, from the tail to the down, whether in a ceremony, art or crafted piece.

Turkey Feathers - We need them!

Most Native American Tribes use turkey feathers, so there is a HIGH demand for them! If you or someone you know hunts turkeys, please consider donating the intact wings and tails, or the loose feathers. I am planning on creating a poster to put up in hunting clubs and other community centers to spread the word.

Is there anything I should do to the feathers before I donate them?

There are no requirements for sending in feathers! We accept any and all feathers, in whatever condition they are provided...

HOWEVER, if you are willing and able:

-Label the species, and write an inventory if you would like a tax receipt.
- Sort the feathers by type (down, body, wing, tail).

- Clean any debris off and ensuring the feathers are fully dry before sending them.

- Put the feathers in your freezer for a few days before sending them to kill any seed moths.

-Tell us about your pet and include a picture! (I would like to start featuring donor birds on the website someday soon!)

Thank you for considering donating your feathers to our program!

Is There Anything Else I Can Do To Help?

YES!!! Help spread the word about Feathers For Native Americans to other bird keepers in your community! We rely completely on word of mouth and Google searches to solicit feather donations, so every mention is helpful!