Current News Snippets

Updated June 30, 2005

Bald Eagle returns to wild (watch QuickTime video)

Dr. Joe Carter (center) prepares to release the Bald Eagle June 30, 2005. He is joined
by WildCare Director Rondi Large and Gov. Brad Henry.

June 30, 2005 marked an early Independence Day celebration for a Bald Eagle and the staff and volunteers of WildCare. The eagle, found in a field near Tecumseh in March and rescued by WildCare Director Rondi Large, had spent four months at the Noble-based rehabilitation facility. The eagle was released into the wild June 30th at Lake Thunderbird in Norman, Oklahoma.

When the adult male eagle was rescued by Rondi and brought to WildCare, he was diagnosed with a broken coricoid bone, which is commonly called the wish bone. It is the support that allows the bird to get lift when he flaps his wings. X-rays also revealed that the bird had been shot.

WildCare is the only wildlife rehabilitation facility in Oklahoma licensed to care for Bald Eagles. Under the medical supervision of Dr. Joe Carter and the continuous care of director Rondi Large, the eagle healed from its injuries and gained strength, ultimately regaining its ability to fly. In a ceremony on the shore of Lake Thunderbird, attended by Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry along with local and federal wildlife officials, the bird took flight as soon as he was released by Dr. Carter. He soared magnificently over the lake, cheered on by the crowd of well-wishers.

(watch QuickTime video)