World Bird Sanctuary Releases Bald Eagle Into the Wild After Treatment

By Carmelo Turdo

The World Bird Sanctuary released a bald eagle into the wild today at Cliff Cave County Park along the Mississippi River south of St. Louis. The eagle was being treated at the World Bird Sanctuary's hospital and rehabilitation facility in Valley Park for an injury, and he was given a clean bill of health to return to his natural environment. The eagle is still fairly young, as shown in his juvenile brown plumage, and will develop the characteristic white head and tail feathers at about four years of age. During his treatment, he had to show his ability to fly in a large enclosure and feed himself. Following the release, the eagle flew out over the river and circled back, landing in a nearby tree.  After a short time, he took off and flew north up the river and out of sight. The Aero Experience salutes the World Bird Sanctuary for their efforts to keep eagles and other raptors healthy and thriving in the Midwest.