Oneida of the Thames First Nation in mourning after eagle killed, mutilated

A bald eagle is seen in flight in this generic image. (Source: Getty)

The Oneida of the Thames First Nation in Southwold, Ont., is grieving following the discovery of a mutilated and murdered eagle, an animal that holds the upmost importance to the community.

The First Nation has issued a community notice, saying an eagle was recently killed, stripped of its feathers and feet, and discarded.

The nation says eagles hold one of the highest places in their teachings.

“This is not only unlawful — it is a direct violation of our identity, our responsibilities, and our sacred relationship with Creation as Onyota’a:ka people,” a news release said.

The First Nation says eagles fly closest to their Creator and carry prayers from the people to the spirit world. Holding an eagle feather represents a living connection to ancestors, ceremonies and their way of life.

Therefore, harming an eagle in this manner is “to break a sacred understanding that has existed since time immemorial.”

“What has happened here is not just harm to wildlife — it is harm to our spirit as a people,” the First Nation said.

The killing of the eagle violates multiple federal and provincial laws, including:

• Migratory Birds Convention Act (Canada)
• Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act (Ontario)
• Endangered Species Act (Ontario)

Punishment can include fines or jail time.

Oneida of the Thames First Nation is asking anyone with information to report it immediately to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources at 1-877-847-7667 or Environment and Climate Change Canada Wildlife Enforcement at 1-800-668-6767. Reports can be filed anonymously.

“As Onyota’a:ka people, we carry a responsibility to protect all our relations — those that walk, swim, crawl, and fly,” the First Nation said. “We must stand together to ensure this never happens again. The eagle deserves respect. Our teachings demand it. Our future depends on it.”