The knowing or wanton possession, taking, or trade of a bald or golden eagle or eagle part is a criminal offense, and any other unauthorized taking or trade is subject to civil penalty. [16 U.S.C. §668] A federal agency may cancel immediately a lease or permit that authorizes a person convicted of a violation of the statute to graze domestic livestock on federal lands. [16 U.S.C. §668(c)]

The statute defines “taking” to include pursuing, wounding, killing, capturing, molesting, or disturbing. [16 U.S.C. §668c]

The Secretary of the Interior may issue permits for the taking, possession, and transportation of bald and golden eagles for scientific, religious, conservation, or agricultural purposes. [16 U.S.C. §668a]

The statute authorizes searches, seizures of eagles or personal property, and arrests for enforcement purposes. The Secretary may enter into cooperative enforcement agreements with states. [16 U.S.C. §668b]