MONTICELLO, N.Y. — An injured bald eagle was rescued along State Route 17 in Sullivan County after it was apparently struck by a vehicle while feeding on a deer carcass, authorities said.
The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 28, when Sheriff’s Sgt. John Panos responded to a 911 report of an eagle standing in the westbound lanes near Exit 105.
According to the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office, Panos found the bald eagle disoriented and unable to fly after it had apparently been hit by a passing vehicle while feeding on a deer carcass.
Additional deputies responded to help contain the bird. Joanne Gerow of Catskill Animal Rescue brought protective equipment to the scene, while Lt. Cheryl Crumley provided an animal crate.
Detective Chris Valastro secured the eagle but was struck in the leg by one of the bird’s talons during the rescue. Despite wearing protective gear, Valastro required medical attention for the injury.
The eagle was transferred to New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Wildlife Technician Patrick Fitzgerald, who transported it to The Friends of the Feathered and Furry in Hunter, New York.
Officials said the bird will undergo rehabilitation before being released back into the wild.
Image Credit: Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office.