04/08/2022
Cousin mine gone 😞 *hopes she is catching fish on the other side*
We are heartbroken to share the recent passing of our beloved female bald eagle, “Sureshot,” at the approximate age of 40 years old.
After being injured in the wild, Sureshot was placed here at SF Zoo in 1997 by U.S. Fish and Wildlife, to be both rehabilitated and for the Zoo to serve as a new permanent home. Living in the tranquil setting of Eagle Island among wild migratory birds, guests would come from all over to see if they could spot this beautiful and iconic eagle sitting along the beach and on low hanging branches. According to her animal caretakers, she had a strong personality, and would often greet the staff with a high-pitched vocalization.
While more recently living in the outdoor yard across from Gail's Fragrance Garden, she was being introduced to new and engaging enrichment items that Sureshot came to enjoy over time, such as a Hol-ee roller and favorite food items, and even “fishcicles” on warmer days. In this new space, her personality really began to shine. We were able to see her confidence grow as she engaged with enrichment as well as participating in voluntary training sessions.
SF Zoo has long been a haven for wild animals rescued and deemed non-releasable after being injured or compromised due to human intervention. Sureshot served as an important ambassador of her species, helping to tell the incredible story of our work in maintaining the largest captive-breeding and release program for bald eagles in the country that ran from 1985 to 2007. She will be missed greatly!
