Elsa, a juvenile Bald Eagle, has returned to the skies after a successful rehabilitation. Found injured on a frozen pond near Kewanee, her wing was fractured and needed time to heal. Thanks to the dedicated care at Hog Capitol Wildlife Rescue and Rehab, Elsa took her first flight since the incident at Johnson’s Sauk Trail State Park on March 16, 2025. Displaying remarkable strength, she took off confidently, rested briefly, and then soared across the lake, even skillfully avoiding an adult eagle’s pursuit. Elsa’s journey is a testament to the resilience and the power of wildlife rehabilitation efforts by Tammy and Jim Yarger.
Another injured juvenile Bald Eagle, River, a remarkable bird, will soon call the Minnesota Zoo her permanent home. After comprehensive X-rays at the University of Illinois confirmed a significant wing break had healed improperly, it was determined that while River can fly, her range is not sufficient for release into the wild. Despite the challenges, there’s a silver lining as preparations are underway to ensure her transfer is smooth and successful, pending document approval. The community is thrilled she’ll enjoy a secure and nurturing environment at the zoo, marking a new chapter in her journey.