Bald eagle released at Kiptopeke State Park

A recuperated bald eagle was released Friday afternoon at Kiptopeke State Park.

After five months of treatment and care, Bald Eagle #24-0336 was returned to the skies in front of approximately 100 people. The eagle was found grounded in a field in Northampton County on March 20. On admission to the Wildlife Center, the veterinary team found a significant ulna fracture in the eagle’s left wing, with a large hematoma present. She also had a laceration on her foot. The team suspects the eagle was struck by a vehicle.

The eagle initially had a left-wing droop during exercise sessions, but the wing droop resolved as the bird rebuilt her strength and stamina.

The bird was ready to go, and acted accordingly, emerging from the kennel almost immediately Friday afternoon and flying back out toward the Chesapeake Bay.

Event organizers were thrilled with the turnout, saying it was far more spectators than they had anticipated.