After two months of expert care and rehabilitation, Bald Eagle #25-1557 and Bald Eagle #25-2253 were successfully returned to the wild on Wednesday, August 13!
Bald Eagle #25-1557 was admitted on May 18 after the fledgling was found on the ground with no parents observed in the area. Upon admission, the Center’s veterinary team determined that the eagle was thin, had a suspected pelvic fracture, and was suffering from subclinical lead poisoning.
Bald Eagle #25-2253 arrived nearly a month later, on June 15, after being found on the side of the road. Although the juvenile eagle had no physical injuries, it was weak and underweight. Given its young age, it may have struggled to find enough food on its own.
The two eagles were housed together in one of the Center’s large outdoor enclosures, where the rehabilitation team provided daily care. By early July, both eagles were healthy and began daily flight exercises to build strength and stamina. On August 8, the eagles were officially cleared for release!
The eagles were released back into the wild on Wednesday, August 13, at 1:00 p.m. at Pocahontas State Park in front of a crowd of around 350 people. Director of Outreach Connor said, “They took their time to leave the crates, but once they did, they flew strongly and circled above the crowd before landing in nearby trees. It was a beautiful sight!”
Stay tuned to see photos from the release!
Bald Eagle Release in the News
Catching up with Cassidie 08/13, CBS19 News
Hundreds flock to Pocahontas State Park for rare double eagle release, Richmond Times-Dispatch
Dr. Meg Gammage-Tucker speaks about the Wildlife Center of Virginia, Richmond Times-Dispatch
Two bald eagles released into Chesterfield state park, VPM
Hundreds flock to Pocahontas State Park for rare double eagle release, Richmond Times-Dispatch
Wildlife Center to release rehabilitated bald eagles at Pocahontas State Park, Rocktown Now
Two fledgling bald eagles to be released, CBS19 News
Bald eagles to be released at Pocahontas State Park after rehabilitation, WRIC