Five bald eagles were found dead in Michigan in a two-week span — sparking concern as environmental officials ruled they did not die from natural causes.
All of the federally protected birds were discovered in the same area of the Upper Peninsula’s Garden Peninsula between April 3 and April 17, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Officials later determined that the bald eagles “did not die from natural causes, predators, or vehicle collisions.”
The five bald eagle bodies were discovered in the same area of the Upper Peninsula’s Garden Peninsula between April 3 and April 17. Michigan Department of Natural Resources¿
The Michigan DNR is now asking for the public’s help in solving the “troubling case” and offering a possible cash reward to tipsters who can provide information leading to an arrest in the string of eagle deaths.
Bald eagles are a state and federally protected species. Killing or injuring the birds can result in thousands of dollars in fees and possible jail time.
Violating the 1940 Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act can result in a fine of up to $100,000 and a possible sentence of one year behind bars for a first offense. Penalties can “increase substantially” for additional violations, according to the law.
Bald eagles are a state and federally protected species. Killing or injuring the birds can result in thousands of dollars in fees and possible jail time. SNEHIT PHOTO – stock.adobe.com
In Michigan, state penalties for harming the national bird include a 90-day misdemeanor, fines ranging from $100 to $1000 per eagle, and a reimbursement of $1,500 per eagle, wildlife authorities said.
The US Fish and Wildlife Service and local tribes will assist with an investigation.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact the DNR’s Report All Poaching Hotline by calling or texting 800-292-7800. Tipsters may remain anonymous,” authorities wrote in a statement.