It all began with a phone call from a concerned citizen who spotted an injured bald eagle at the Glenmore Reservoir ground on the 21st of December 2024. The majestic bird appeared weak and unable to fly, a troubling sight for anyone familiar with their usual powerful demeanor.
Our team set out to rescue the bird from a remote area. Thanks to the location pin provided by the finder (a member of the public who found the bird ), we were able to locate it successfully. Upon arrival, our rescue team quickly realized the eagle was in dire need of medical attention. It had likely been grounded for days, suffering from dehydration and visible injuries to its wing.
Rescuing a bird of this size and strength is no easy task. The team carefully secured the eagle without causing further stress or harm. Wrapped in a protective blanket to minimize movement, the bird was transported in a kennel to our facility for a full assessment.
Upon arrival at the center, our veterinary team conducted a thorough examination. The eagle had abrasions on both dorsal aspects of the elbows, lots of clear fluid at the back of the throat, putrid-smelling black stool, and feces on the feathers. Additionally, it was severely stressed and dehydrated when it came into our facility, a sign that it had been unable to hunt for an extended period.
The first step in the eagle’s rehabilitation was stabilizing its condition. We rehydrated the bird with subcutaneous fluids and kept it in a quiet place to calm down to reduce the stress.
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Throughout the days that followed, the eagle’s resilience shone through. Slowly but surely, it regained strength, confidence, and the ability to move around in its private room in our isolation trailer. One of the most memorable moments was watching it attempt its first feeding.
After few days in isolation the bald eagle was moved to one of our flight pens which is a larger enclosure that enables our birds to practice flying and hunting.
On the 28th of December, the day finally arrived to release the bald eagle back into the wild. The release site was chosen carefully, near to where he was found. An area near a body of water abundant with fish—a perfect environment for a bird of its kind.
As we opened the carrier, the eagle hesitated for just a moment before spreading its powerful wings. With a mighty leap, it took to the skies, soaring higher and higher until it was just a speck on the horizon. Witnessing this incredible moment, our team was filled with pride and gratitude, reminded once again why we do what we do.
This bald eagle’s story is just one of many that unfold at the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society. Each animal we care for teaches us about resilience, the interconnectedness of all living beings, and the importance of protecting our natural world.
Wildlife rehabilitation plays a crucial role in conserving biodiversity and giving injured animals a second chance at life. However, this work would not be possible without the support of our community. Whether simply through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, everyone can contribute to this vital mission.
For assistance with injured and orphaned wildlife, please contact the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society at 403-214-1312.
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