CONCORD — A bald eagle injured by gunshot in Millsfield in late October was successfully rehabilitated and released into the wild near the Androscoggin River on Dec. 15.¬ The immature bird had suffered a fractured wing and other injuries.
The eagle was released near the inlet canal to Brookfield Renewable Power's Pontook hydroelectric facility in Dummer, adjacent to Millsfield and part of the same watershed.¬ Several bald eagles congregate at the Pontook Reservoir during the winter, so the young bird will have nearby role models to help it find food at this time of year.
"When we learned that releasing the eagle from this location was going to give it the best chance in the wild, we agreed without a moment's thought," said Paul Guay, maintenance supervisor for Brookfield. "Brookfield collaborated with New Hampshire Audubon and local wildlife agencies in the past to successfully relocate an active osprey nest containing two eggs from our substation in Dummer, and we are glad to be a part of another important event that helps local wildlife."
Chris Martin of New Hampshire Audubon said minimizing the bird's length of time in captivity would help its chances for survival in the wild.¬
The eagle was restored to health by licensed wildlife rehabilitator Maria Colby at Wings of Dawn in Henniker.¬ The day before its release, Colby assisted Audubon biologists in placing federal and color identification bands on the eagle.
New Hampshire Fish and Game Department conservation officers and special agents of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are conducting a joint investigation into the shooting.¬ To date, officials have not found the person responsible for the shooting, but the investigation is open.
"Our wildlife agencies are still at work looking for evidence to find the perpetrator," said Sgt. Wayne Saunders of N.H. Fish and Game Law Enforcement.¬ "We remain hopeful that they can find the person responsible for this crime."
Anyone with information should call the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Operation Game Thief 24-hour hot line at 1-800-344-4262, or report online anytime at http://www.HuntNH.com/OGT. Callers may remain anonymous.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering a reward of up to $2,500 to the person or people who provide information leading to a conviction under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
The shooting occurred in October, off the Millsfield Loop Road in Wildlife Management Area B in Millsfield.¬ Local sportsmen discovered the injured bald eagle. Wildlife biologists Andrew Timmins and Will Staats captured the wounded eagle, delivered it to the wildlife rehabilitator and assisted with its release.
