Someone appears to be intentionally killing bald eagles in the Upper Peninsula’s Garden Peninsula, according to Michigan Department of Natural Resources investigators. And the DNR is seeking the public’s help in finding the culprit.
Between April 3 and April 17, five bald eagles were found dead in a single area of the Garden Peninsula, a portion of southeast Delta County that extends into northern Lake Michigan and is bordered by Big Bay de Noc to the west.
“The DNR is requesting tips from the public to help solve this ongoing investigation,” said 1st Lt. Mark Zitnik, DNR Law Enforcement supervisor in Newberry. “We can confirm that the eagles did not die from natural causes, predators or vehicle collisions.”
The eagles do not show signs of trauma, Zitnik added. Though lead poisoning is a chronic problem in bald eagles in the Great Lakes region, Zitnik said investigation confirms “it is not an environmental issue” causing the eagles’ deaths.
Tipsters who provide information leading to the arrest and prosecution of any individuals may be eligible for a cash reward. Anyone with information is asked to contact the DNR’s Report All Poaching Hotline by calling or texting 800-292-7800. Tipsters may remain anonymous.
Eagles are a state and federally protected species. In addition to court costs, state penalties include:
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and local tribes are assisting the DNR with this investigation.
Contact Keith Matheny: kmatheny@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Mysterious deaths of 5 bald eagles in Michigan’s U.P. prompt DNR investigation
Reporting by Keith Matheny, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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