Reward Offered for Information on Bald Eagle Shooting in Vermont
Bridport, VT – The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has announced a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the investigation of a bald eagle that was illegally shot in Addison County last month. The announcement came via a joint press release with the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department on Thursday.
The adult bald eagle was discovered dead near East Street in Bridport on October 15, following reports made to Vermont’s game wardens. An examination of the bird revealed metal pellets and injuries consistent with shotgun fire, confirming that it was the victim of illegal hunting.
The eagle was first spotted in Vermont in August 2006 and was part of a growing population in the state. According to Audubon Vermont, there are currently at least 45 pairs of bald eagles residing in the region. While bald eagles were removed from the U.S. Endangered Species Act in 2007 and delisted from Vermont’s state endangered species statutes in 2022, they remain protected under federal law. Violating these protections can lead to substantial fines, with penalties reaching a possible $15,000 under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and $100,000 under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward. Those with details are encouraged to contact Sgt. David Taddei at the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department at 802-498-7078.
As the investigation unfolds, wildlife advocates hope that this incident will raise awareness about the importance of protecting Vermont’s native bird species and the consequences of illegal hunting.
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Photo credit vtdigger.org
