A bald eagle found unable to fly near Mississippi River Road in Keokuk sparked a rescue effort involving local residents and authorities alike..
The Daily Gate City reports that BJ Abston and his family first spotted the eagle sitting on the ground near Galland School and quickly realized something was wrong when it didn’t take flight. After contacting Keokuk Animal Services, a team assembled with nets, gloves, and a kennel to safely capture the bird.
The eagle was transported to a wildlife sanctuary in Independence where it was identified as a female. Examinations showed no lead poisoning, but the bird had significant bruising near its wing and was underweight—likely explaining why it could not fly.
Rehabilitation staff say the eagle is eating well and has a strong chance of recovery.
