Bald Eagle Rescued, Found Overweight in Missouri

Wildlife officials in Missouri initially thought a bald eagle was injured when it was found grounded near Wilson's Creek National Battlefield, but it turned out the bird was simply 'too fat to fly' after gorging on suspected roadkill raccoon. X-rays taken at Dickerson Park Zoo revealed the remains of a raccoon's leg and paw in its distended stomach, confirming the eagle's health. Captured and rehabilitated, the eagle was later released back into the wild after digesting its meal. Sightings of the bird prior to its capture showed it struggling to take off, leading to concerns about its well-being. The Missouri Department of Conservation stated that bald eagles primarily eat fish but are opportunistic feeders, often consuming what's readily available, including carrion. This incident reflects the ongoing conservation efforts in Missouri, which is home to over 400 bald eagle nests.