WYTHE COUNTY, Virginia – A tragic incident unfolded at the Southwest Virginia Wildlife Shelter on Christmas Eve when a young bald eagle succumbed to a gunshot wound on its wing. The staff at the shelter was left devastated by the loss of the majestic bird, calling it a “horrific crime” that marred the holiday season.

The young bald eagle, a symbol of American pride and resilience, had been brought to the shelter with the hopes of rehabilitation and eventual release back into the wild. However, the gunshot wound proved fatal, leaving the shelter staff heartbroken and the public outraged.

The Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center serves as a sanctuary for injured and orphaned wildlife, providing medical care and rehabilitation to hundreds of animals each year. The loss of the young bald eagle has not only impacted the shelter’s staff but has also sparked a conversation about the protection of these magnificent creatures and the enforcement of wildlife protection laws.

In recent years, bald eagles have made a remarkable recovery from the brink of extinction, thanks to conservation efforts and legal protections. However, incidents like the tragic death of the young bald eagle serve as a reminder of the ongoing threats these animals face in the wild.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with local law enforcement, is conducting an investigation into the shooting of the young bald eagle. The public is urged to come forward with any information that may lead to the identification of the person responsible for the crime.

As the Southwest Virginia Wildlife Shelter mourns the loss of the young bald eagle, conservationists and wildlife advocates are using this tragic event to raise awareness about the importance of protecting these iconic birds and ensuring their safety in their natural habitat.