Bald Eagle Dies at John Ball Zoo
A sad note from the John Ball Zoo. One of their bald eagles died on Saturday. Bea, the Eagle, had been at the zoo since being rescued in 2017 by Wings of Wonder Raptor Rehabilitators after she was found injured in Bruce Crossing in the western part of the UP, close to Lake Superior and Wisconsin.
She recovered after treatment, but it was determined that she was not able to use her wings and legs enough to be able to hunt and survive outside of human care.
Fox 17 reported that John Ball Zoo (JBZ) estimated the Bea was probably 10-years old.
The average lifespan of bald eagles in the wild is around 20 years, with the oldest confirmed one having been 38 years of age. In captivity, they often live somewhat longer. In one instance, a captive eagle in New York lived for nearly 50 years.
The zoo reported on their Facebook page:
"Zoo keepers had noticed that Bea, its female bald eagle, was experiencing changes in her voice. Animal health and animal care teams were working to determine what was wrong and treat the issue.
When initial testing and treatments were not leading to improvement, the team decided more advanced testing was needed and Bea was taken for a CT scan and bronchoscopy.
Bea experienced severe complications while under anesthesia and died."
They went on to say:
“Bea always had a lot of attitude, and was very observant whenever the keepers would enter her habitat. She was a magnificent ambassador for her species and will certainly be missed by the staff and guests at John Ball Zoo.”
All of us will miss you, Bea! But, now you're soaring free in the skies. RIP!
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