Giant bald eagle found on side of Volusia County road dies from extreme injuries

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. - A giant injured bald eagle that was unable to fly and suffering from notable injuries was rescued from the side of the road by Volusia County Animal Services on Tuesday.

Officials took the eagle to the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey in Maitland to receive further care, but sadly, it was unable to survive its injuries.

Injured eagle found on side of the road

What we know:

Volusia County Animal Services said they responded to a report of an injured bald eagle around 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 1, on Spring Garden Ranch Road in DeLeon Springs.

The bird was found on the side of the road and was unable to fly, authorities said. Officials said the bird was suffering from notable injuries to its right wing and mouth.

Animal Control Officer Smith pictured with the rescued bald eagle. (Credit: Volusia County Animal Services)

The animal services team said they secured and carefully transported the distressed eagle from the roadway, ensuring it received immediate attention to prevent further injury.

Through collaborative efforts with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey was contacted, and they arrived at the scene to transport the bird to their facility for further care.

The bird had to be euthanized, according to officials, as its left shoulder was crushed — most likely from a car strike — and its internal injuries were too severe for it to survive.

What we don't know:

The exact circumstances under which the eagle was injured are unknown.

What they're saying:

"Volusia County urges residents to promptly report any wildlife injuries to the appropriate authorities, helping to ensure the safety and well-being of both the community and its wildlife," Volusia County Animal Services said in a social media post following the rescue.

"We are deeply saddened that, despite the best efforts of all involved, the injured bald eagle we rescued yesterday had to be humanely euthanized by specialized veterinary staff at the Maitland Bird Center due to the severity of its injuries," Volusia County officials said in an emailed statement to FOX 35. "Volusia County Animal Services is committed to taking immediate and compassionate action to give every injured animal we encounter the best chance at survival. The loss of this wild bald eagle underscores the profound impact that even the briefest glimpses of nature's majesty can have on us."

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