via leelanau.com…

Bald Eagle Rescue, photo by Ken Scott Photography

Wings of Wonder is a non-profit raptor sanctuary located in Empire, Michigan that focuses on the rescue and rehabilitation of birds of prey and also in educating people on their role in the natural world. Last weekend, WOW founder & director Rebecca Lessard led a very appropriate rescue for Independence Day. She writes:

Last night I was called in on the rescue of an adult Bald Eagle, down in Manistee County, who had a fishing lure embedded in his left wing, up near the shoulder. With assistance from Law Enforcement Officer P. Wiese I was able to successfully remove the large 3-hook rapella. Due to the severity of the wounds and the poor condition of this eagle it was apparent that the hook had been in his wing for quite a long time, preventing him from flying or eating. He had severe bruising inside his mouth and all around his beak ….most likely from trying to remove the painful hook, and he was extremely dehydrated, thin and very weak. Once we got the hook removed he was transported to Wings of Wonder and given fluids and small bites of clean meat. He spent the night in intensive care and this morning seemed to be feeling a bit better. Even tho he was still quite weak I decided to move him into our large 100 foot flight pen where he could get some fresh air, bathe, eat and rest. He was offered a large chunk of fish which he devoured eagerly.

These kinds of cases truly drive me crazy as they are soooooooooooo preventable. Fishing tackle and fishing line, as well as all other types of garbage and litter that is left behind, can result in a slow death for a variety of wildlife. Remember ALL of our actions result in a consequence … by making responsible choices our actions can help to make this world a more beautiful place … resulting in freedom, independence and health for all … a reminder on this 4th day of July…

(a huge thanks to Ken Scott Photography for the “imagery capture”)

Click to view the entire process from start to finish on Facebook and definitely consider supporting Wings of Wonder!