OXFORD, N.Y. — A bald eagle struck by a vehicle in February is soaring free once again, after a coordinated rescue and rehabilitation effort involving state police, wildlife experts, and a dedicated rescuer.
Key Points
- Bald eagle was hit by a vehicle in Oxford on February 27
- Troopers, DEC officers, and a wildlife rescuer coordinated the recovery
- After rehabilitation, the eagle was successfully released back into the wild
The New York State Police said the incident occurred on February 27 in Oxford, Chenango County. Troopers from SP Norwich, along with officers from the Department of Environmental Conservation and rescuer Charley Koop, responded to the scene. Koop was able to safely capture the injured eagle.
The eagle was transported to the Janet L. Swanson Wildlife Hospital at Cornell University. Veterinarians found the bird had significant bruising but no broken bones.
Wildlife centers assisted in recovery
After initial treatment at Cornell, the eagle was transferred to the Friends of the Feathered and Furry Wildlife Center for continued care and recovery.
State Police shared that this week, the eagle was successfully released back into the wild, marking the end of a nearly six-week recovery process.
Community effort celebrated
“Thank you, Mr. Koop for sharing your video and everyone that helped get this majestic bird back to where he belongs!” the agency said in a post.