Memorial Day Bald Eagle Release

Eagle releases are always amazing, but releasing a Bald Eagle on Memorial Day is fitting and especially moving.



( Photo: And she is off to reclaim her place in the wild world. This Bald Eagle came in with lead poisoning in the fall of 2009. Photo by Katie Rymer.)

People wonder how we catch eagles when they are flying in our large flight building. It is a process. Below are a few photos that give an idea of what goes on.



( Photo: Time to catch her up in the eagle exercise flight! The eagles are well conditioned and this part of the process can take a long time. It makes for well conditioned staff too!)



( Photo: The Bald Eagles last minutes in captivity!)



( Photo: The Bald Eagle is finally tired and on the ground. Here we can pop a net over her head and pick her up for transport. Next she will have an "exit" physical to make sure she is 100%, then she will be fed a crop of meat before she is released. Intern Robert P. helps hold the net while I pick her up.)




( PHoto: The crowd in thrilled with an up close, but safe, look at an adult Bald Eagle.)




( Photo: Seeing a Bald Eagle up close is a once in a lifetime expereince for many and one they never forget. The birds presence and sense of calm is remarkable to everyone that sees it.)

It has been extraordinaily busy here this past week. We have admitted many patients, more than ever in our history. We have lots of photos to share when we can sit down and download them all.

The interns are all amazing. They are working hard and are sponges when it comes to learning about the birds and their care and husbandry. These young people will be some fine wildlife professionals.

Thanks for your patience with the slow process of the blog. We are here and we are busy taking care of remarkable patients with special stories we are eager to share.

Have a great day!

Marge Gibson 2010