EUREKA SPRINGS (News Release) – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission are seeking information on the shooting of a bald eagle near Beaver Lake on March 9. The Humane Society of the United States, the AGFC and the Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust are offering a reward of up to $6,000 for information leading to a conviction of the person or persons responsible.
This eagle is the fourth one found shot in Arkansas in the past few months. The bird was found dead on March 9 in the Hogscald Hollow area of Beaver Lake. Evidence recovered at the scene indicates the eagle was killed with a rifle and that the shooting occurred on March 8 or 9.
Glen Pye, special agent for USFWS, said shooting a bald eagle undermines important efforts to protect our national symbol. “We are very interested in any information regarding this illegal act,” Pye said.
Although bald eagles are no longer listed under the Endangered Species Act, they are still federally protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Maximum fines under these acts are $100,000 and $15,000, respectively, with possible imprisonment up to one year.
Anyone with information should call Special Agent Glen Pye with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at 501-772-8010 or the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at 800-482-9262. Persons providing information may remain anonymous.