N.S. wildlife centre waiting on good weather to release wandering golden eagle

A golden eagle made an unexpected appearance in central Prince Edward Island, causing quite a stir among locals. The bird was found grounded on Greys Road in Belle River, exhibiting signs of exhaustion and reluctance to fly. This rare sighting of a golden eagle in the Maritimes prompted the involvement of P.E.I. Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Inc., who were quick to respond to the situation.

Candy Gallant, a member of the rescue team, received a call from a concerned passerby who had encountered the majestic bird on the road. With the help of her husband, they managed to corral the eagle using a blanket to prevent any harm. The bird’s peculiar behavior, including comical running movements, caught the attention of onlookers as they awaited assistance from a Humane Society officer.

After being rescued, the golden eagle was taken to Hope for Wildlife in Seaforth, N.S., for evaluation and care. Hope Swinimer, the founder of the center, conducted a thorough examination of the bird to determine the cause of its distress. Surprisingly, no underlying health issues were found, leading to the hypothesis that the eagle may have been suffering from fatigue due to a long journey or other factors.

Golden eagles, often mistaken for bald eagles, are known for their predatory nature and impressive hunting skills. These birds of prey are native to western North America but can occasionally be spotted in other regions during winter migration. Despite their fearsome reputation, golden eagles are also admired for their beauty and grace in flight.

As the golden eagle recuperates at Hope for Wildlife, volunteers are keeping a close eye on its progress. The bird has been placed in a flight cage alongside a bald eagle for companionship and observation. Swinimer hopes to release the golden eagle back into the wild once it regains its strength and the weather conditions are favorable.

The unexpected visit of this golden eagle serves as a reminder of the diverse wildlife that can be found in unexpected places. With proper care and attention, this magnificent bird will soon be soaring through the skies once again, continuing its journey across the vast landscapes of Canada.