Battered Eagles

(Originally printed in the Powell River Peak)

After two weeks in rehabilitation at the Mountainaire Avian Rescue Society in Courtenay, a wayward bald eagle was returned to Texada Island and released.

John Whitehead found the eagle on his property in the Oasis area north of Gillies Bay. "There were a few eagles hanging around in the area before Christmas," he said. "When I got home after Christmas I found this one in the backyard, hopping around, unable to fly."

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He said he called the Powell River conservation officer service, but was told there were no officers available in the area, and he should try the Powell River SPCA. He contacted volunteer branch manager Audrey Hill, who quickly arranged for local volunteers to get there with a transport cage.

"I was right on the scene," said volunteer Micheline Macauley. "I live right next door."

Joined by volunteers Cheryl Nyl and Elaine Purgavie, Macauley and Whitehead set about the daunting task of capturing a bald eagle.

"It wasn't easy," said Whitehead. "We got a blanket over him, and got a hold of his talons. But even though he was wrapped in the blanket his head was still out, and I didn't know if I was going to get an eye pecked out. I got my coat off and over his head, and we got him into the kennel. He wasn't happy, but he didn't get overly excited."

After a preliminary examination by local veterinarian Dr. Brian Barnes, of Westview Veterinary Hospital, BC Ferries gave the eagle a free ride to the Mountainaire Avian Rescue Society.

Mary Jane Birch, wildlife rehabilitator and manager of the society, said fortunately, there were only minor injuries. "There were no broken bones or major lacerations," she said. "But he was thin and wet and cold, and was found down on the ground, so that's never a good sign."

She said it was possible that the eagle may have fought with another eagle, as winter is hard on all wildlife, with strong winds, harsh weather and disrupted food supply. "There's competition over food, over territory and mates," she said. "We gave him lots of food, vitamins, and some rest and relaxation. That seems to have done it."

After two more free ferry rides on Tuesday, January 22, the bird was returned to Whitehead's property and released.

"He hopped right out," Macauley said. "He looked around, flew up into a low tree and rested for a bit. Then he just took off. It was beautiful to see."

Hill said this is the fourth eagle the SPCA has assisted this winter, which is unusual. "We've had about nine eagles in the 14 years I've been here." she said. "We captured one on Savary Island two weeks ago, but he was too badly injured, probably by the storm, and didn't make it."