Bald eagle shot, killed in Ankeny; DNR seeks public’s help

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ANKENY, Iowa — On Jan. 3, 2020, the Ankeny Police Department contacted an Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) conservation officer and a wildlife rehabilitator  about a mature bald eagle that was not acting normally but was sitting on the ground near Northeast Trilein Drive and E. First Street in Ankeny.

After several attempts, the wildlife rehabber was able to capture the eagle and discovered blood coming from its mouth. Within a couple hours after its rescue, the eagle died from its injuries.

The eagle was transported to Saving Our Avian Raptors (SOAR) for further inspection and X-rays. The X-rays disclosed a lead-shot BB in the lungs of the eagle, which caused the eagle’s death.

Investigators believe the eagle may have been shot somewhere in the vicinity of northeast Ankeny, possibly ometime between Jan. 2-3.

Anyone with information is urged to call the TIP Hotline at 1-800-532-2020 or complete the confidential online TIP form. A TIP reward is available for any information leading to the arrest of poaching this eagle.

Bald eagles are protected by federal law, and violators face fines of more than $20,000 for harassing, killing or wounding an eagle. If you find a dead or injured eagle, immediately call a local DNR conservation officer or any DNR staff.

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