Man gets $5K fine, probation for trading bald eagle feathers

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Federal prosecutors say a Florida man who illegally possessed and traded feathers of American bald and golden eagles has been sentenced to a $5,000 fine and five years of probation.

Authorities announced the sentencing Monday of 51-year-old Ed Winddancer of Port Charlotte, Fla.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says Winddancer was arrested in Tennessee in July 2005 after he traded feathers from eagles and other protected migratory birds to an undercover agent in exchange for feathers and parts of other protected wildlife species.

Investigators say Winddancer performed Native American dances and music for civic groups, schools and summer camps. He also used the feathers to decorate his regalia.

The possession of American bald and golden eagle feathers without a permit is prohibited by the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.