A bald eagle involved in a violent territorial fight at West Seattle’s Lincoln Park was euthanized Sunday after suffering catastrophic injuries, despite a bystander’s attempt to intervene.
The incident unfolded when Seattle resident Joven Yount came across two bald eagles locked in a ground fight that wildlife officials later described as a likely territorial dispute tied to mating season. One eagle had pinned the other, its talons piercing near the injured bird’s eye and the back of its head, drawing blood.
Fearing the injured eagle would die, Yount and another woman stepped in, using jackets to separate the birds. The uninjured eagle eventually flew to a nearby tree, while the wounded bird remained dazed and bleeding. Residents contacted animal control and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Bystanders tried to save the eagle
A local bird surveyor provided a crate, and the eagle was transported to the PAWS Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Due to extensive trauma to both eyes, the bird was humanely euthanized, according to PAWS.
Fish and Wildlife officials say territorial clashes between bald eagles are common this time of year but stress that members of the public should not handle wildlife. Bald eagles are federally protected, and improper handling can worsen injuries or pose health risks, including avian flu exposure.
The incident was first reported by The Seattle Times.
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