A bald eagle in California has successfully returned to the skies after a lengthy recovery from severe injuries sustained through electrocution. The bird was rescued by SPCA Monterey County in December 2025, when it was discovered with notable signs of electrocution and a broken coracoid, an essential flight bone located in its chest.
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Upon its arrival at the SPCA Monterey County Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, staff began to assess the extent of the eagle’s injuries. A post on social media from the centre revealed that electrocution injuries in large birds, especially raptors, can take time to fully manifest, often revealing additional complications days or even weeks later.
Electrocution is a significant threat to free-flying raptors, according to the Association of Avian Veterinarians. The injuries can lead to severe burns and tissue necrosis, resulting in considerable pain for the affected birds. Recognising the serious nature of the eagle’s condition, the SPCA team prepared for a prolonged rehabilitation process.
Beth Brookhouser from SPCA Monterey County elaborated on the specific challenges involved in the eagle’s recovery. The male bird underwent several months of enforced rest to allow his broken bone to mend properly. “He needed quite a few months of cage rest, where we were not moving his wing at all, allowing that bone to heal,” Brookhouser explained.
Once the fracture had healed, staff began the arduous task of introducing physical therapy. Brookhouser noted the complexities of working with a wild animal during this phase: “Then, once the bone was healed, we needed to start slow physical therapy with him, which, with a wild animal, as you can imagine, is not a very easy task.”
On June 19, SPCA Monterey County announced the positive news that the bald eagle was ready to take flight again. Accompanied by a photo of the bird’s release, they expressed their excitement on social media: “Today, after a brief pause, he caught the wind and soared over the golden hills, circling above the landscape before continuing on his journey.”
The eagle’s release marked the culmination of extensive rehabilitation efforts, which included medication and therapeutic care designed to restore its strength and capabilities. Days after the release, the organisation shared a video capturing the moment the eagle took to the skies once more, describing the occasion as unforgettable.
“Moments like this are only possible because of your compassion and support,” the SPCA Monterey County stated, thanking the community for their contributions. They highlighted that each rescued wild animal and treatment provided is made possible through public donations and support.
The return of the bald eagle not only signifies a personal victory for the animal but serves as a reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation efforts. SPCA Monterey County continues to advocate for the care and rehabilitation of injured wildlife, stressing the critical need for community awareness regarding the dangers posed by electricity lines to avian species.
As wildlife enthusiasts and advocates celebrate the successful release, the story of this eagle serves as a compelling testament to the relentless spirit of animals and the dedicated efforts of those committed to their recovery.