Alabama Eaglets Lost After Storms Destroy Their Nest
Two young bald eagles rescued after severe March storms in southern Alabama were euthanized. Auburn University Raptor Center confirmed the decision on April 14.
Rescue and transfer
A line of powerful thunderstorms moved across southern Alabama and the Pensacola area overnight on March 11. The weather toppled a well‑known nest at Gulf State Park.
Park staff and local residents spotted the collapse and alerted the Orange Beach Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Both eaglets were found and moved for veterinary care.
Admission and medical care
The eaglets arrived at the Auburn University Raptor Center on March 17. Veterinarians performed surgeries to address multiple injuries.
The AURC team closely monitored the birds while evaluating their prospects for recovery and release. Intensive medical intervention continued for several weeks.
Injuries sustained
Both birds had broken wing bones. One eaglet suffered radius and ulna fractures and infection from a fishing lure lodged in its foot.
The other had a fractured humerus and serious eye trauma. Medical staff documented injuries likely caused when the nest collapsed.
Timeline
- March 11 — Severe storms toppled the nest at Gulf State Park.
- March 17 — Both eaglets admitted to Auburn University Raptor Center.
- April 14 — AURC announced the euthanasia decision.
Reasoning for euthanasia
Despite surgeries and supportive care, veterinarians concluded the birds would not regain necessary functions. They determined long‑term survival in the wild was unlikely.
Staff also judged that life in human care would be compromised by chronic pain, blindness, or severe mobility limits. The center called euthanasia the most humane option in this case.
This outcome underlines the risks that storms and human debris pose to wildlife. Filmogaz.com will continue to follow updates on rehabilitative efforts in the region.
