Oregon State Police say a bald eagle found dead near Brookings had its talons cut off…a violation of federal law, punishable by a fine of at least $100,000.
The eagle’s body showed no signs of visible trauma, which suggests it could have already been dead before someone removed the parts. But authorities say that’s still a crime without a permit.
OSP Sergeant Kyle Hove says one Oregon trooper told him cases like this happen every so often.
“His last case was an electrocuted bald eagle where the suspect took the talons a few years ago," says Hove. "They keep them…as either a trophy or keepsake.
"(The trooper) said that they could legitimately be used as an educational tool or perhaps a Native American ceremony item.” 
Anyone with leads on the case – or feel that they’ve come into possession of illegally-gathered eagle parts -- are asked to call the Oregon State Police.
Senior Trooper Paul Rushton can be reached at (541)531-5896. The OSP's Turn In Poacher (TIP) Hotline is 800-452-7888.
The bald eagle is also protected by Oregon’s wildlife laws.
