WYTHE COUNTY, Va. – The Southwest Virginia Wildlife Shelter experienced a heartbreaking Christmas Eve after the death of a young bald eagle due to a gunshot wound in the wing. The center, located in Wythe County, Virginia, had been caring for the eagle before its unfortunate passing.
The shooting of a bald eagle is not only a tragic loss for the wildlife shelter, but it is also a violation of federal law. Bald eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act as well as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, making it illegal to harm, disturb, or kill them.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is currently investigating the incident, hoping to find the person responsible for this “horrific crime.” Bald eagles, as apex predators, play a crucial role in the ecosystem, and their loss has a ripple effect on the environment.
The Southwest Virginia Wildlife Shelter, along with wildlife authorities, is urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. The sanctuary is dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of injured and orphaned wildlife, and the senseless shooting of the young eagle has left the staff and volunteers devastated.
The death of the young bald eagle on Christmas Eve is a stark reminder of the threats that wildlife face, and the importance of protecting and respecting these magnificent creatures. Bald eagles are not only a symbol of strength and freedom but also vital to the balance of nature. The sanctuary hopes that justice will be served for the young eagle and that awareness about the protection of wildlife will be raised as a result of this tragic event.