The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has issued a $2,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution in the shooting of two bald eagles in the Tennessee River valley. Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency along with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service continue their investigation investigating the shooting of two bald eagles in the Tennessee River Valley.
Anyone with knowledge regarding these two shootings is asked to contact the TWRA, Region III office at 931 484-9571 or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at 615 736-5532.
The first injured eagle was reported on Jan. 30, around 2 p.m.in Meigs County. The bald eagle was found alive, but injured off of State Route 68 near State Route 58. The female eagle was transported to the Avian and Exotics service at the University of Tennessee Veterinary Medical Center. After examination, it was determined the eagle had been shot with size eight to eleven shotgun pellets. It was also determined the eagle had been shot up to one week prior to the report. Injuries sustained were incurable and the animal was euthanized.
The second eagle was found on the side of Abby Lane, just north of Highway 60 in Rhea County, the afternoon of Feb. 1. The eagle was alive but in poor condition. This bird was also transported to the Avian and Exotics service at the University of Tennessee Veterinary Medical Center. A suspected entrance and exit wound were found and thought to be caused by gunshot. Injuries sustained were incurable and the animal was euthanized.
Bald eagles were taken off of the endangered species list in 1978. However, bald eagles are still protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Violations of these statutes carry a maximum criminal penalty of up to $100,000.00 and/or one year in federal prison. State charges will also apply.