A Bald Eagle Found “Too Fat” to Fly After Feasting on Roadkill
A bald eagle found along the boundary of Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield in Missouri was initially thought to be injured because it couldn’t fly. However, after wildlife officials captured the bird for rehabilitation, X-ray tests revealed the surprising reason behind its inability to take flight – it was simply “too fat.”
The Missouri Department of Conservation determined that the bald eagle had been feasting on raccoon roadkill, causing its stomach to become engorged. X-rays taken at the Dickerson Park Zoo showed the outline of a raccoon paw inside the bird’s distended stomach.
While fish typically make up the majority of an eagle’s diet, they will feed on whatever is most readily available. In this case, the eagle took advantage of the easy meal provided by the roadkill.
After confirming that the bird was healthy despite its overindulgence, wildlife officials released the bald eagle back into the park in compliance with federal and state laws. The Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, the site of a significant Civil War battle, was once again graced by the presence of this majestic bird.
This unusual story serves as a reminder of the adaptability and resourcefulness of wildlife, even in unexpected circumstances.
