On Thursday, August 20, Bald Eagle #26-1644 was successfully released back to the wild at Chippokes State Park.
Bald Eagle #26-1644 was admitted to the Center as a fledgling on May 24 after being found grounded on a trail in Newport News. During the eagle's exam, the veterinary team did not find any obvious injuries, though they suspect that the bird had a mild coracoid (shoulder) fracture. The team started the bird on anti-inflammatories and supportive care, and by June 3, the eagle was deemed healthy and moved to the Center’s A3 Flight Pen, where it joined two other juvenile Bald Eagle patients.
During 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 #26-1644 demonstrated strong flight from the first session, and on August 14, the veterinary team determined that the eagle had fully recovered and was ready for release.
This release took place next to Chippokes State Park's Plantation House. A crowd of about 50 people joined Center staff for the release, including the eagle's original rescuer.
