Native & Birds of Prey

Birds of Prey refers to a group of birds that prefer kill their prey that they eat. Eagles, Hawks, and Falcons are among this elite group. They are the strongest, fastest birds in the sky. No other bird soars quite like a Eagle or a Hawk, or drops out of the sky like a Falcon. For as far back as I can remember, I have been fascinated by these majestic looking birds. As a young man I was fortunate to have a friend who was into Falconry (the keeping and training of Hawks and Falcons for the purpose of hunting). I was able to observe these birds up close and feel their power and spirit.

As I began to pursue my personal Native journey, I soon realized my admiration and respect for these regal birds came from a deeper place. Native People consider Birds of Prey sacred, especially the Eagle. We have looked to Father Sky and gained strength from Cuauhtli (Native for Eagle) for thousands of years. Their feathers are highly respected and thought to have great powers, and they are used in many of our traditional ceremonies.