Delta Police Save Injured Bald Eagle From Highway Traffic

When five people spotted a struggling bald eagle wandering near the concrete barrier on Highway 17 in Delta, they knew every second counted.

Delta police arrived first on scene around 9 a.m. and carefully secured the injured bird in the back of their cruiser. Their quick action likely saved the eagle's life, keeping it safe from oncoming traffic until wildlife experts could arrive.

"If they didn't get it when they got it, probably would have got run over and we'd be picking up a body and not a live bird," said Rob Hope, manager at the Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society. "The police officers were wonderful. They went above and beyond to take care of the animal."

The healthy 10-year-old male eagle shows signs of paralysis but no broken bones. Hope estimates there's a 95 percent chance the bird was struck by a vehicle, and while the next 10 days will be critical, he's cautiously optimistic about its chances.

One officer stayed with the bird while another picked up Hope to transport the eagle to OWL's facility on 72nd Street. The bird is now on medication, and staff are monitoring it closely for signs of improvement.

This rescue came just one night after OWL took in another injured raptor. Abbotsford police found an owl with head injuries near Highway 1 and Sumas Way, and an OWL volunteer drove out to collect it. That bird is also showing promising signs, standing and alert in care.

The Ripple Effect

These back-to-back rescues highlight how a simple act of calling for help can save lives. Hope says OWL receives up to a dozen calls monthly about birds hit on local roads, though most don't survive. The five people who reported the eagle and the police officers who responded turned this story into a rescue instead of a tragedy.

Roadside litter attracts rodents, which in turn attract hunting raptors like eagles and owls, increasing the risk of vehicle strikes. By keeping highways clean and watching for injured wildlife, communities can help protect these magnificent birds.

OWL Rehabilitation Society's annual open house, their largest fundraiser, happens May 30 and 31 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Entry is free, though donations help them continue their lifesaving work.

Thanks to alert citizens and dedicated first responders, this eagle has a fighting chance to soar through Delta's skies again.