FRANKLIN, Pa. — Pennsylvania Game Commission personnel successfully placed a young bald eagle back in its nest in western Pennsylvania May 24.
Local citizens contacted the commission’s northwest region office May 22 advising that a young eagle was out of the nest and on the ground.
Wildlife Conservation Officer Lawrence Hergenroeder, along with Deputy Wildlife Conservation Officer Ron Richman, responded to the incident and retrieved and transported the bird to Skye’s Spirit Rehabilitation Center in Harrisville, Pa.
The bird was evaluated and spent several days rehabilitating prior to the release.
Call the fire department
Lawrence County Wildlife Conservation Officer Byron Gibbs made contact with the Ellwood City fire department to assist. The fire department evaluated the scene and determined that they could use a fire truck with a 100-foot boom to facilitate the release.
Butler County wildlife officer Chris Deal, who has extensive experience with raptors, was tasked with placing the eagle back in its nest.
The operation was completed at approximately 1 p.m. and one of the adult eagles soared over the nest minutes after the youngster was released.
“This was a highly unusual situation,” said Roger Coup, wildlife management supervisor for the northwest Pa. region.
“This nest had only one young bird, so there was an opportunity to attempt a reintroduction.”
The commission is not releasing the exact location of this nest to minimize disturbance from the public.
The Pa Game Commission went above and beyond to save this eagle’s life. It took alot of effort and teamwork for everything to fall into place. Thank you so much to the Game Commission for caring about our baby eagle. I live close to the nest and witnessed the catching and returning of the baby eagle. I am happy to report that he is still in his nest and being fed by the parents. A happy ending !!!