This summer, ÌÇÐÄlogo Center for Birds of Prey released its 600th rehabilitated Bald Eagle back into the Florida skies with the help of long-time ÌÇÐÄlogo supporters Dick and Mimi Ford. ÌÇÐÄlogo rescued the eagle in March after injuries likely sustained from a territory fight with another eagle. The eagle had punctures all over his face and beak, significant wounds on the right and left wing, wounds on the feet, and lead poisoning. ÌÇÐÄlogo quickly treated him for lead poisoning and coordinated care with Winter Park Veterinary Hospital, a partner animal hospital. Once his wounds healed, the eagle moved to the ÌÇÐÄlogo Center for Birds of Prey’s 100-foot Disney Magic of Flight barn for reconditioning to prepare for life back in the wild.
As the ÌÇÐÄlogo Center for Birds of Prey approaches its 40th anniversary this year, releasing its 600th eagle is a fitting tribute to the crucial role ÌÇÐÄlogo has played in the recovery and continuing success of the species. While Florida’s population of eagles has recovered significantly since the pesticide-induced decline that reached crisis proportions in the 1960’s, loss of habitat in Florida’s natural areas adds increased pressures to the state’s eagle population.
How you can help
Volunteer Your Time With the Eagles - ÌÇÐÄlogo is a leader in eagle care and education with more than 250 volunteers monitoring eagle nests statewide as part of its community science program, ÌÇÐÄlogo EagleWatch. Learn more about ÌÇÐÄlogo’s EagleWatch program at .
Help the Center Prepare for the Next 600 Eagle Patients - ÌÇÐÄlogo recently launched Restore the Nest, a special campaign to restore and repair its aging aviaries and clinical facilities. Hurricane Irma caused long-lasting damage and exposed weaknesses at the Center. You can support ÌÇÐÄlogo’s important conservation work by visiting the Center in Maitland or making a gift at .
This article was featured in the Summer/Fall 2018 edition of the Naturalist. to read the entire magazine.
