In Missouri, a bald eagle that was believed to be injured was found to have a different issue – overeating. The bird was taken in by the Missouri Department of Conservation after being spotted on the edge of Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield. However, X-rays showed that there were no injuries, but rather the eagle was very full of food. The eagle had eaten a raccoon and was deemed “engorged,” or too fat to fly. The bird was rehabilitated and released back into the wild.
The post by the parks officials included an X-ray image showing the raccoon’s paw inside the eagle’s stomach, indicating the full belly of the bird. The raccoon was likely roadkill before becoming a meal for the eagle. The Missouri Department of Conservation also shared the news, highlighting that the bird had been grounded due to “some real good eating.” The eagle’s situation garnered attention on social media, with many finding it relatable and humorous.
According to the National Eagle Center in Minnesota, roadkill is a common food source for bald eagles. While these large birds are primarily predators that catch live prey, they are also opportunistic and will not turn down a free meal. This behavior is not uncommon among eagles, as they are known to scavenge for food in addition to hunting. The eagle in Missouri likely came across the raccoon as an easy source of a meal.
The stuffed bald eagle in Missouri was able to be rehabilitated and released back into the wild after its overeating incident. It is important for wildlife officials to monitor the health of animals in the wild, especially when they are found in distress by the public. In this case, the bird was lucky to have been discovered before any harm came to it, allowing for a successful rehabilitation process before being released.
This incident serves as a reminder of the natural behaviors of bald eagles and other wildlife in their environment. While it may seem unusual for a bird of prey to overeat to the point of being unable to fly, it is not unheard of for animals to take advantage of readily available food sources. The eagle’s predicament has provided amusement for many on social media, drawing attention to the importance of wildlife conservation and the need to protect these majestic creatures in their natural habitats.
