Majestic bird found injured in Westville, earns its wings

In a show of great resilience and overcoming the odds, the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) successfully released a majestic crowned eagle which had been rescued in December.

With wings outstretched, the regal bird took to the skies on February 7, showcasing its newfound strength and freedom after a brief yet crucial stint at the rehabilitation centre. The entire rescue mission was spurred by distress calls from concerned individuals in Westville, prompting Crow into swift and decisive action.

Clint Halkett-Siddall, operations director at Crow, shared insights into the release, stating, "The crowned eagle was deemed ready for release based on its strength in flight and the height of its flight. We took extra precautions to ensure a seamless landing without any issues."

Before rehabilitation, the crowned eagle, faced significant challenges, having suffered a concussion, favouring its right leg, and struggling to maintain a healthy weight.

"We administered anti-inflammatories and antibiotics. It was crucial to provide the eagle with a quiet space to recover and allow it to exercise in the flight aviary,” said Mr Halkett-Siddall.

He said it was through a dedicated regimen of care and rehabilitation, that the crowned eagle emerged victorious.

“Its successful release signifies a promising chapter for both Crow and the broader cause of preserving wildlife, as the majestic bird is now poised to thrive once more in its natural habitat. The tale of this crowned eagle serves as a testament to the importance of rehabilitation efforts and the unwavering commitment of organizations like Crow in safeguarding the well-being and future of our wildlife. As the eagle soars high above, it symbolizes not just a personal triumph but also a collective victory for the on-going battle to protect and conserve our precious natural heritage,” said Mr Halkett-Siddall.