Eagle Rescues

Photos by the author.

In the heart of the American Midwest, a remarkable spectacle unfolds each winter—a grand migration of eagles. For centuries, these migrating birds of prey have traveled through the skies above Illinois, taking a journey from their northern breeding grounds to seek refuge in the warmer climates before heading back again when the weather breaks and the ice begins to melt. Yet, with this annual migration comes a hidden danger, as some eagles may fall victim to injury along the way, requiring the intervention of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Office of Law Enforcement.

The annual eagle migration in Illinois is a natural wonder, drawing birdwatchers, photographers and nature enthusiasts from far and wide. From the towering bluffs along the Mississippi River and tree-lined Illinois River to the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan and scores of large lakes and reservoirs, observers gather to witness the magnificent sight of bald eagles soaring gracefully overhead, the distinctive white heads and tails of mature adults shining against the backdrop of the winter landscape. Illinois boasts one of the largest winter bald eagle populations in the continental United States and celebrates the eagle migration by having local events throughout the state.

However, during their journey some events get them off track—eagles are not immune to the hazards that may exist. Harsh weather conditions, collisions with power lines or vehicles, and encounters with human activity can all lead to injuries that leave these large birds stranded and vulnerable. Fortunately, the Illinois Conservation Police are on hand to assist when injuries occur.

The Role of Law Enforcement

The Illinois Conservation Police are tasked with protecting the state’s natural resources and wildlife, and for the bald eagle that includes protections offered under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. But our dedicated officers also are trained to respond to a wide range of wildlife emergencies, including responding to injured eagles. When reports of injured eagles come in, Conservation Police Officers respond, utilizing their specialized skills and resources to assist and transport to these migrant birds. Their journey may need a little or a lot of assistance. Injuries can vary widely, from broken wings to exhaustion and dehydration. Something may be as simple as a bird getting caught in a fence. The goal is to stabilize the injured bird as quickly as possible and transport it to a wildlife rehabilitation center for further evaluation and treatment.

Reporting Injured Bald Eagles

Over the years several rescues have been made by Illinois Conservation Police Officers (CPO). There seems to be a spike in eagle calls during migration. If you see an injured eagle, get a good description of the location and, if possible, note the type of injury. Share that information with your local CPO. Even with a good description officers may not be able to find the bird if it travels out of the area or is hidden in the foliage. Most injured birds remain in the same area for a few days when they don’t have the ability to leave the area.

Handling Eagles Requires Training

The process of rescuing an injured eagle is a delicate and challenging event. Conservation Police Officers must first locate the bird, often navigating rugged terrain or navigating waters to reach remote locations. Once the eagle is located, officers carefully assess its condition, taking care to avoid causing further stress or injury. Oftentimes, capturing the bird requires specialized training and skill. The birds have sharp talons and a swift beak and often are nimble. Eagles generally fall on their back with talons pointed up for their best defense. Once something occupies their talons an officer can reach down and secure the animal safely. The bird is then wrapped in a blanket or placed in an animal carrier and transported. Only those with special training should attempt to handle an eagle.

Banded Eagles

Some Illinois raptors are banded and have a metal collar on their leg. The collar has an identification number on it that can be used to determine where the animal was born and/or banded. The banding agency often wants to know how and where the animal was contacted, if it was injured or deceased, and the result of the contact.

Causes for Eagle Injury or Death

If an eagle is found dead near a power pole or pollution source, CPOs will investigate and make sure the power pole equipment complies with the safety measures for migrating birds. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency will be contacted if water pollution is suspected.

Occasionally eagles get sick or die after feeding on a poisoned deer carcass in an effort to kill off coyotes. It is unlawful to poison a deer carcass and violators are subject to arrest.

In all eagle deaths, a thorough investigation is conducted. Many times violations are referred to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for federal prosecution.

Looking after the safety of eagles is just one of many activities that underscore the importance of the Illinois Conservation Police in protecting Illinois’ wildlife. From rescuing injured eagles to enforcing wildlife laws and regulations, Illinois Conservation Police Officers are committed to preserving the state’s natural resources for future generations.

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Steven Beltran joined the Illinois Conservation Police in 2000, retiring as a Sergeant in northwest Illinois in 2024.