They couldn’t believe it.
As summer kicked off in Pennsylvania, a family was surprised to find an unexpected guest wandering around their property—a large bird that seemed disoriented and unsure of its surroundings. For three days, the bird lingered near their home, appearing lost. On the third day, the family discovered the bird in a surprising spot—perched on the arm of their porch’s rocking chair, staring through the window as if seeking help.
Concerned for the bird’s wellbeing, the family contacted experts at Raven Ridge Wildlife Center. When the rescuer from Raven Ridge arrived, they quickly identified the bird as a young bald eagle, and it was clear that the eagle was in distress.
“Our rehabilitator immediately noticed that the eagle was struggling,” Raven Ridge Wildlife Center shared in a Facebook post. “Upon closer examination, we found it to be thin, dehydrated, and weak.” The bird was swiftly taken back to the wildlife center, where it received the care it desperately needed.
The rescuers aren’t entirely certain why the young eagle ended up alone, but they suspect that it might have gotten lost while trying to navigate the world on its own.
“At this time of year, young animals often venture out and sometimes find themselves in difficult situations,” Raven Ridge explained in their post. “When fledglings leave the nest, they may have trouble flying at first and need a few days to build strength and learn from their parents.”
Currently, the young eagle shares an enclosure with another rescued eagle recovering from a broken leg. With a little guidance from his new companion, the wayward bird is learning the skills necessary to thrive in the wild.
“The eagle with the broken leg is already perching on a high, five-foot perch, which is a great sign. That’s exactly what we want,” rehabilitator Tracie Young said. “And the younger eagle, the one we found on the rocking chair, is starting to realize, ‘Oh, this is what my wings are for.’ He’s also beginning to join the other eagle on the higher perches.”
The rescuers are confident that with time and care, this young eagle will make a full recovery.
“We’re committed to ensuring this eagle regains its strength and makes a complete recovery,” Raven Ridge affirmed.