It is well known that Native American chiefs wore feathers as part of their headdress to signify their connection to the spiritual world. Feathers were also used by Native Americans in ceremonial rituals such as rain dances, in order to strengthen their communication with the gods. Birds are a sense of wonder because of their ability to fly high in the sky and be closer to the gods. Before modern technology, birds had a view from the sky that was not available to humans. It was believed that by honoring this species, prayers would more successfully be delivered to the heavens, and visions from the heavens could be brought to earth.
Eagles were seen to be especially powerful due to their size and endurance. While flying high in the sky and settling their nests high in the mountains, they are said to carry prayers, protect, and bring spiritual visions from the gods. Spirituality is a very important aspect of Native American culture. When all work and harvest is completed, time is devoted to artistic pursuits. Beauty is meant to appease the gods, and symbols of birds are the best connection to the gods and getting prayers answered.
Birds naturally shed their feathers, which make them an ideal embellishment to any ritual or ceremonial outfit. Eagle feathers for one are mostly found high in the mountains making it a task of endurance and strength to retrieve one. Having a piece of a bird with such power is a sign of strength for the person that wears it. Parrots are admired for their beauty and are a sign of the sun along with beauty in nature. Hummingbirds are mystical creatures, with a beauty of their own, but never staying still long enough to be viewed in detail. Water birds seem to have a connection to much needed rain.