The Little Eagle that Could Released back to Notre Dame LEEF

SOUTH BEND, IND. – ND17, the bald eagle affectionately known as The Little Eagle that Could, Itty or Tiny, spent 21 days at the Humane Indiana Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center before being released back to its nest at the ND Leef near St. Patrick's Country Park in South Bend. The release occurred on Jul. 20 at 7 a.m. after clearing his last health check-up with flying colors. 

On Jun. 30, St. Patrick's Country Park staff contacted Humane Indiana Wildlife staff regarding a young bald eagle chick that had fallen out of its nest, possibly seen from their nest cam. The eagle was under three months old and malnourished, not being fed regularly enough by its parents to maintain good body composition; the chick weighed just under six pounds at admission. The bald eagle was also not spending time balancing in trees or learning to fly but was spending more time on the ground. 

This behavior raised concern, bringing on the decision to take the chick to the Humane Indiana Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center for further evaluation and care. Bloodwork, testing for illnesses, and x-rays returned negative for any fractures, abnormalities, or infections, clearing ND17 of any significant issues. The goal from here was to help ND17 rehydrate, return him to a healthy weight, and give him the space to fly and perch in the outdoor flight enclosures. Large enclosures assist the birds at the wildlife center in strengthening their wings and flight skills until they are relocated or released. 

After three weeks of care, ND17's health and behavior improved enough for clearance to be released. He weighed over 6.5 lbs. at the time of release and was able to fly without any issues. After the release, he joined his siblings and parents within 30 seconds of his crate door opening, returning to the ND Leef nest he called home. One of his siblings happily greeted him and flew back with him. 

"He needed some assistance and support," said Humane Indiana Wildlife director Nicole Harmon. "It was a privilege to be able to provide him a helping hand in getting better." 

To contribute to the cost and care of wildlife like bald eagle ND17, please consider donating at www.humaneindiana.org/wildife-donate. More than 10,000 animals come in for services or care at a given time. With your help, we can continue to help wildlife live healthy lives. 

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Since 1941, Humane Indiana’s mission has remained the same, to lead the community in the humane treatment of all animals. Our goals and impact reach far beyond our doors, with community resources made available throughout Northern Indiana. For more information, please visit HumaneIndiana.org