Road Worker Rescues Injured Bald Eagle in Washington

When Daylon Harn stopped to clear a deer carcass from a Washington roadway on January 30, he didn't expect to come face to face with an injured bald eagle struggling to survive.

The Chelan County Public Works driver was checking roads near Entiat when the adult eagle suddenly emerged from nearby brush. Its right wing hung at an unnatural angle, likely injured during a fight with vultures over the carcass.

Harn immediately contacted the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, but they were tied up with a missing person case. Instead of leaving the bird behind, Harn made a different choice.

Over his winter weekend shift, Harn returned repeatedly to check on the eagle near the intersection of Entiat River Road and Entiat Way. The bird couldn't fly long distances but remained alert and strong. "The bird still had a lot of life in it," Harn said.

On February 1, a neighbor connected with a private wildlife rescue company. Harn helped rescuers carefully capture the eagle using a blanket before securing it in a transport cage. The bird was taken to a rehabilitation facility in Pullman for treatment.

Sunny's Take

For Harn, who grew up in Entiat and still lives there, the decision to keep returning was simple. "That's our nation's bird," he explained.

His dedication reflects the values he learned working in the hills around his hometown. Both his parents retired from Chelan County government service, and he understands his role extends beyond just maintaining roads.

The eagle's rescue required collaboration between a watchful neighbor, a committed county employee, and professional wildlife rehabilitators. Each person stepped up when the bird needed help most.

Now recovering in professional care, the eagle has a fighting chance thanks to one road worker who refused to drive away.