Thanks to a CHS reader for the pictures!
They weren’t Seahawks, fortunately, but a couple of Seattle birds of prey needed rescuing Saturday after being found locked in a “death grip” struggle on the rain soaked ground at Capitol Hill Steven’s Elementary School.
The two adult bald eagles were successfully rescued on the drizzly afternoon after apparently plunging to the earth in a locked-talon struggle.
The birds, which were found entangled and unable to separate, were safely freed by Seattle Animal Control as neighbors looked on and transported to a Snohomish wildlife rehabilitation center for care.
Saturday’s crash occurred during the peak of territorial activity for bald eagles in the Pacific Northwest. While “death grips” are often associated with courtship, they can also be an outcome of intense combat between males.
Eagles may lock talons mid-air, leading to a chaotic struggle rather than a rhythmic display. Because their talons operate on a “ratchet” mechanism, eagles can find it impossible to let go as they tumble.
After being separated by animal control officers, the eagles found Saturday near Stevens were taken to the facility in Snohomish to be evaluated for potential injuries and further care.
Thanks to a CHS reader for the report and pictures
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