The severe storms that produced two tornadoes in Kewanee, not only caused serious property damage but also took down a nest with a Bald Eagle and her two babies. The mama eagle was injured and required a month-long stay at Hog Capitol Wildlife Rescue and Rehab. She was named Aphrodite. She went down with her nest when the tree went down in the storm. Her mate and one baby were in a nearby tree, watching over injured Aphrodite. The farmer told Hog Capitol Wildlife Rescue and Rehab that there were two babies and that Aphrodite and her mate had that nest in that tree for five years, which makes her at least ten years old. The second baby was spotted later with the dad Eagle.
Aphrodite had no broken bones but had issues standing, and her tail was sideways. She had good days and bad days, but she fought her way back to health and back home to her family. On July 22nd, she was on a perch in the flight kennel and chatting away. After a few rough days of shuffling around, she was back on the perch on July 29th.
On August 17, 2024, Aphrodite was reunited with her mate and two babies, who were waiting for her to come home. Her mate was flying overhead waiting for Aphrodite to fly home to a tree near their old nest. Aphrodite wasted no time running out of the kennel and flying back home to her family. She flew to their tree and instantly started calling for her family. Aphrodite and her mate were so happy to see each other they did an ariel dance while the rescue team was still in sight. The pictures below include Aphrodite and her mate as he was flying overhead.
The bald eagle ariel dance or talon dance is a courtship ritual performed by bald eagles that involves locking talons and spinning while falling towards the ground and unlocking at the last possible moment. The purpose for the ariel dance is to determine the fitness of their mate. This ritual can be dangerous and end in a fatal crash to the ground if the talons lock together.
Hog Capitol Wildlife Rescue and Rehab survives on donations. They spend around $1,000 a month just on food, but they also need medications for injured animals, vet bills, and travel expenses for rescues and releases. If you are able to donate, please visit here to donate. The QR Codes for Paypal and Venmo are in the picture gallery below. There is a Hog Days raffle fundraiser with great items. You can find information on their Facebook page, at their booth in Liberty Park, or call 309-540-9126. You can pay for raffle tickets through Paypal and Venmo, or cash. The winners will be drawn on Monday, Labor Day.
Pictures and Videos from Sarah Geiger Photography and Hog Capitol Wildlife Rescue and Rehab
