As part of its partnership with the Minnesota Zoo, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s Youth Leadership Council provided guidance in naming a recently acquired bald eagle. The new name—Waḣca (flower in the Dakota language). 

Rescued in Iowa in August 2024 following an injury, Waḣca joined the Minnesota Zoo in May 2025 after it was decided she could not be released into the wild.

Learn more about Waḣca from the Minnesota Zoo and make sure to visit her on the Minnesota Trail.