LSU School of Veterinary Medicine Releases Rehabilitated Bald Eagle

April 23, 2008 —The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine successfully rehabilitated and released an adult bald eagle in February of this year, ensuring that one of our nation’s proudest symbols will continue to fly high over south Louisiana.

The eagle was discovered in Lafourche Parish in January, unable to fly and dehydrated. Upon arrival at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana, the bald eagle was examined more closely. Extensive diagnostic tests revealed some intestinal parasites, as well as a possible fracture of the right clavicle. The radiographs (x-rays) also showed that the eagle was illegally shot at some time, but it is unclear whether that was related to its current state of health.

After medical stabilization, an exploratory surgery was performed to determine if the clavicle was indeed fractured and to repair it if needed. The surgery did not reveal a fracture, and the eagle recovered well from the procedure. By January 24, 2008, the surgical incision had healed, and the eagle responded well to supportive therapy needed to give it strength.

Once the eagle was strong enough, it was transferred to Wings of Hope Wildlife Sanctuary for rehabilitation and flight training, where final preparations were coordinated for its release.

On the morning of February 20, the eagle began a new chapter in its life as it was released at the Brownell Memorial Park & Carillon Tower (3359 Hwy 70) in Morgan City, La. Dr. Javier Nevarez, director of the LSU SVM’s Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana, opened the transport carrier and released the eagle, which quickly took to the sky.

The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine has long cared for Louisiana’s injured wildlife, providing hope for animals which would otherwise have not been able to defend themselves in the wild. Support for lifesaving efforts like this one is critical to the success of the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine and the future of animals such as the rare bald eagle in Louisiana.

Forever LSU is a University-wide effort to raise $750 million in support for LSU by the end of the year 2010 and is proud to support institutions like the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine. For more information on how you can get involved with the campaign for LSU's future, visit www.foreverlsu.org.