11/11/2024
Today, we set out on an urgent call to rescue a bald eagle in Pomfret that had been electrocuted. Despite our efforts to reach the scene quickly, it was too late—the eagle had already passed. It’s always heartbreaking to see these magnificent birds fall victim to such tragedies.
This eagle was part of a larger story. Banding records from the Bird Banding Laboratory revealed it was banded as a chick in Massachusetts on May 29, 2008, when it was too young to fly. Its gender was unknown; however, from its post mortem weight we can surmise it was female.
While it’s always heartbreaking to lose any animal, especially one as symbolic as a bald eagle, we take comfort in ensuring it will find purpose even after passing. The eagle’s body will be prepared and shipped to the National Eagle Repository. This unique facility, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, plays a critical role in supporting Native American traditions by distributing eagle parts and feathers to members of federally recognized tribes. The Repository also works to educate on wildlife laws, raptor conservation, and the significance of eagle feathers in Native culture.
It’s a reminder of the complex intersections between wildlife, conservation, and cultural heritage. Fly high, noble eagle. 🦅✨
