Owl Feathers used for Dreamcatchers and Mandelas are an important part of both.
Native Americans Tribes believe that by the use of owl feathers on a Dream catcher allows good dreams and thoughts to be carried to the Creator
(to Heaven), while the bad ones disintegrate in the morning light.
Owls are a protected species and not just in the United States. They are also one of around 33,000 species of animals and plants protected.
There are several international laws protecting Owls (and other birds) and it is illegal to possess any part of an Owl, including feathers and talons, without a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service. This includes feathers you find in the forest or even from an Owl that you find that is dead. Permits are only issued to educational facilities, like Museums and other teaching facilities, and for religious ceremonies. Fines for possession of any part of an Owl without a permit in the United States can be quite costly.
The US Secretary of Interior issues permits to American Indians to use eagle, hawk, and owl feathers and parts in traditional religious and cultural ceremonies; however they must have certification of tribal membership and the appropriate registration license.
Possession of non-permitted feathers can carry a Federal penalty of a $2,000 fine and up to 2 years in prison.
There are also civil penalties for the same offense.