Rehabilitated Bald Eagle Soars Back to the Wild at Indian Lake

​On March 17, 2025, a rehabilitated bald eagle was released back into the wild at Indian Lake, marking the end of a remarkable 40-day recovery journey. The event, led by Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Mary Mertz and Ohio Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker, drew wildlife staff, park personnel, and community members together to witness the inspiring moment.

The eagle’s journey began in January when State Wildlife Officer Brian Motsinger, assigned to Union County, responded to a call about an injured eagle on private property. After tracking the grounded bird for a quarter-mile through mud and grass, Officer Motsinger captured it safely with his raptor gloves and transported it to Crow’s Hollow Wildlife Care in Union County.

The eagle arrived at the rehabilitation center with head injuries and trauma. Rehabilitators Judith Vaughn and Barbara Ray provided supportive care, nutrition, and daily medical treatment. “The first 48 hours after a wild animal is admitted into care is the most critical,” they explained. “Trauma and wounds can heal with time, but stress is a primary factor when dealing with wild animals. Decreasing stress while treating injuries is very challenging.”

Over the next 40 days, the eagle regained strength. Vaughn and Ray ensured the bird received a proper diet of fish and meat while helping it rebuild muscle. Their dedication ultimately led to the eagle’s successful recovery and release.

Bald eagles have made an extraordinary comeback in Ohio, from only four nesting pairs in 1979 to more than 900 nests today — a turnaround driven by conservation efforts like the ODNR’s Bald Eagle Restoration Project and the ban on the pesticide DDT.

“Watching any animal return to their habitat and home is the most rewarding aspect of wildlife rehabilitation,” said the team at Crow’s Hollow. “Less than 30 years ago, eagle populations were still low; it is an honor to be able to watch him fly over the lake and back to his home.”

ODNR continues to monitor Ohio’s bald eagle population through annual aerial nest surveys, production assessments, and public reporting systems. The public can support these efforts by purchasing Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamps or donating to local wildlife rehabilitators like Crow’s Hollow Wildlife Care.
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For those who encounter injured wildlife, the ODNR advises contacting 1-800-WILDLIFE or a local wildlife rehabber to ensure the animal receives proper care.