May 11, 2003 2 min read

LIGONIER – Pennsylvania Game Commission Southwest Region Director Matt Hough announced that the agency is seeking information on the illegal shooting of a mature bald eagle in Westmoreland County. Hough noted that Wildlife Conservation Officer Gary Toward is investigating this incident, and is asking the public for information about the person or persons responsible.

The injured eagle was taken to Tamarack Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Crawford County.

After a physical examination, including X-rays of the bird, it was revealed that the bird had been shot. WCO Toward immediately began a criminal investigation.

“Fortunately, in this case, the rehabilitation center is cautiously optimistic that the bird will not only survive, but it will also recover enough to be released back into the wild at the capture site,” Toward said. “This fact became even more important following the discovery of an active nest site not far from where the bird was found.

“This was a senseless act. Only recently have sightings of these birds become a little more common, and having an active nest in this area is, to my knowledge, the first in Westmoreland County in a long time. To have someone shoot one is an absolute shame.

“I am asking the public for help. If anyone knows or hears anything about this illegal shooting, they can call our regional office toll free at 1-877-877-7137. I will be grateful for any and all assistance. Any information we do receive will be held in the strictest confidence.”

Hough noted that the agency also is investigating the death of another bald eagle in a nest along the Allegheny River in Perry Township, Armstrong County.

“We don’t know the cause of death, and we have been prevented from climbing up to the nest due to dangerous situations,” Hough said. “It appears that the eagle had been dead for more than two weeks.”

Hough said that anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact the Southwest Region Office at 1-877-877-7137, as well.