Trio of Rehabilitated Bald Eagles to be Released into Wild Near Watertown

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The Bramble Park Zoo is preparing to release three rehabilitated bald eagles back into the wild on Saturday, October 4, at 1 p.m. The release event will take place at Thompson’s Point on Lake Pelican, offering the public a chance to witness the birds' return to their natural habitat.

The three eagles were admitted to the zoo's Migratory Bird Rehabilitation Program after overcoming significant challenges, including West Nile virus and wing injuries. The release marks a successful fulfillment of the program's primary mission: to heal sick and injured wild birds and return them to the wild whenever possible.

The event will begin with zoo staff removing the eagles from their carriers to prepare them for flight. A Native drum blessing and prayer will be held to honor the moment before the eagles are set free. The release is expected to be brief to minimize stress and ensure the birds' healthy return to the wild. After the eagles are released, zoo staff will remain at the site to discuss the rehabilitation program with spectators.

Event Logistics and Program Significance

Guests are invited to go directly to Thompson’s Point for the 1 p.m. release. Alternatively, attendees may meet in the Bramble Park Zoo parking lot at 12:30 p.m. to join a staff-led caravan, which will depart promptly at 12:40 p.m.

The Bramble Park Zoo's Migratory Bird Rehabilitation Program is the only facility in South Dakota that treats sick and injured wild birds. The program plays a vital role in the zoo’s conservation efforts, providing medical care, proper nutrition, and rehabilitation. The need for such programs is significant, as more than one-third of U.S. bird species are currently classified as having moderate to high conservation concerns, and many populations are in decline.

For birds that cannot be released, the zoo provides long-term care or partners with other zoos and education facilities, allowing the birds to serve as ambassadors for their wild counterparts. According to the zoo, every bald eagle currently held in captivity has come through a rehabilitation program similar to this one.

The program relies on community support to cover the costs of food, medical care, and staff time. Gifts to the program can be made online at brambleparkzoo.com by selecting “Donate Now” and specifying the “Bird Rehab Program.”

Bramble Park Zoo’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BPZandLAZS

Bramble Park Zoo’s website: brambleparkzoo.com