How to Deal with a Dead or Injured Bald Eagle
By Julia A. Keirns
(This article was written for the local newspapers and published in July, 2018)
In light of the recent event which killed a bald eagle on Lincoln Highway, it seemed reasonable to provide information on the subject of how to deal with a dead or injured bald eagle.
The American Bald Eagle is a protected animal by Federal Law, and therefore under strict rules and guidelines for its care and disposal. The Bald Eagle Protection Act prohibits the take, possession, sale, purchase, barter, offer to sell, purchase or barter, transport, export or import, of any bald eagle, alive or dead, including any part, nest, or egg unless allowed by permit. The term “take” includes pursue, shoot, shoot at, poison, wound, kill, capture, trap, collect, molest, or even to disturb.
One of the most common questions asked is “Will I be charged with a crime for accidentally hitting and injuring or killing a bald eagle?” The Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of Natural Resources, or the local authorities will not normally seek prosecution in the case of an “accidental” collision with a vehicle. If a vehicle does accidentally hit a bald eagle it is recommended that the proper authorities be notified immediately. In some cases, the bird can be rehabilitated and released back into the wild. In the event the bird is expired, there are proper ways of taking care of the carcass.
It is recommended to take photos of the animal exactly as it was found. Never take the carcass home, as it is illegal to take or possess any bald eagle parts, including feathers, without a proper permit.
Calling the local sheriff’s office or police station is the first call to make. Most of the time, they will then contact the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for removal of the bird. If the bird is injured, do not attempt to approach it. Protect it from further injury if possible, but do not follow the bird into traffic. The proper authorities will take on this responsibility once they arrive.
Last week a bald eagle was hit and eventually died. The particulars of the accident are not known, and no one has come forward with any further information. According to Trooper Son Le of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the ODNR no charges will be filed in the event as this was an unintentional collision with the bird.
“It was an unfortunate event to be sure,” stated Trooper Le. “The Department of Natural Resources was notified immediately. The bird was severely injured when it was found and eventually did expire at the scene.”
Troopers Son Le and Michael Dirr did their best to protect the bird from any further injury until the DNR arrived.
“It was the first bald eagle I have ever encountered,” continued Le. “It was an emotional thing. I felt so bad for the bird and wanted it to survive. The bald eagle represents our nation, and it is a proud thing to see.”
With the increasing population of bald eagles in this area, it is inevitable that more events of this nature will occur. It is recommended to report large roadkill to prevent younger bald eagles from landing in the middle of a road for food. Roadkill lures large birds of prey including bald eagles onto the road where they can easily be struck. This is a very common occurrence with turkey vultures and will now become the norm with bald eagles. To report roadkill for removal, pull over to the side of road making sure not to block traffic, turn on 4-way flashers, note the location, then call the local police department or Department of Transportation.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is deeply appreciative of everyone’s concern for the bald eagle. It will be used for training as is appropriate and will be disposed of according to law. They wish to remind everyone that as lovely and fascinating as these wonderful raptors are, they are very dangerous and will defend and protect themselves if injured.