Wow, what an event we’ve got coming up this Saturday here at The Wildlife Center of Virginia, in Waynesboro. Two of the birds fledged too soon and were found dehydrated and malnourished on the ground. The third injured itself when it left the nest. After healing and recuperating for several weeks, all three are now ready to return to the wild. Come see them on Saturday, July 25th. The program will start at the Visitor Center at noon, and the birds will be lofted one at a time around 12:30 or so. You should have lots of chances for up-close photographs.
Why are all three going to make Mason Neck State Park their home now? Wildlife rehabilitator Ed Clark says that the Mason Neck area is an ideal place to give these birds a good start. There’s a healthy population of bald eagles already in the area, and numerous osprey as well. Since the three youngsters need some help learning how to feed and fend for themselves, having lots of role models is perfect. Plus, bald eagles love to eat carrion, such as dead fish washed ashore or even caught by another bird. We often see eagles stealing fish from osprey or other eagles in mid-air!
This is a rare opportunity to see our national bird up close. In all 27 years of its operation, the Wildlife Center has never before had three eagles ready to go at one time. When a rehabilitated eagle is ready to be set free, it lets you know in no uncertain terms. There usually isn’t much advance notice, either. It’s great to have all three birds ready to go at once. We’re looking forward to an amazing and inspiring program on Saturday. I hope you can come join us as we welcome Mason Neck State Park’s newest resident bald eagles.