Bald Eagle Release at Mason Neck State Park

Location name
Mason Neck State Park
Event address

7301 High Point Rd
Lorton, VA 22079
United States

Join us for a Bald Eagle release at Mason Neck State Park on Thursday, September 3!

Bald Eagle #26-2307 was admitted to the Center on June 17 as a transfer from Owl Moon Raptor Center after a storm knocked its nest from a tree in Alexandria, Virginia. On admission, the fledgling eagle was alert but soon began experiencing difficulty breathing. An exam revealed that the bird was thin and had blood coming from its mouth, raising concerns about internal trauma. The veterinary team immediately provided IV fluids and placed the eagle on oxygen therapy to help with its respiratory distress. Once the bird was more stable, the team also started pain medication and anti-inflammatory treatment.

After several weeks of intensive care, the eagle had recovered and was moved to the Center’s A3 Flight Pen, where it joined two other juvenile Bald Eagles in rehabilitation. Over the next two months, the three eagles continued to grow and develop together. In August, the rehabilitation team began daily exercise sessions to build their flight strength and endurance. Bald Eagle #26-2307 was initially clumsy and had poor stamina, but by late August, it was demonstrating strong flight. On August 31, the veterinary team determined that the eagle was ready for release.

Join us to watch Bald Eagle #26-2307 return home! 

This release is free and open to the public and will take place on Thursday, September 3, at 12:00 p.m. at Mason Neck State Park. Attendees are asked to RSVP with their name and the number of people in their party through the Center's registration page. 

Directions: Use the address 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton, VA 22079 for GPS navigation. The release will take place near Mason Neck State Park's Picnic Area, and park staff will help direct visitors.

Parking: While parking is free for the eagle release, please purchase a State Park parking pass if you plan to stay and enjoy the trails after the event. If possible, we ask that you carpool, and we recommend arriving a little early to ensure you have time to get situated.

We hope to see you at the release!