A bald eagle is scheduled to be euthanized after being shot.
The incident happened on Tuesday at Lake Cumberland State Resort Park when an injured bald eagle was rescued by park staff members, who quickly discovered the bird was suffering from a gunshot wound.
“Despite our hopes and the dedicated efforts of wildlife veterinarians, the injuries from a gunshot wound are too severe for recovery,” park officials said in a social media post. “The trauma to the wing and surrounding tissue means this magnificent bird would never fly again and would suffer ongoing pain.”
Shooting a bald eagle is a federal crime punishable by up to a $100,000 fine and one year in prison.
“Eagles are sacred, protected symbols of our nation’s heritage,” park officials stated.
No arrest has been made. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife officials are investigating. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
(Photo: An injured bald eagle at Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, courtesy of the park’s Facebook page)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
