DNR wants to know who shot, killed bald eagle in Clinton County

Bald eagles protected in Michigan since 1954, reward offered to find poacher

DEWITT, Mich. – Conservation officers with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources are seeking tips to catch the poacher responsible for killing a bald eagle near the Highland Hills Golf Club in DeWitt.

DNR says the eagle was shot and killed on April 27 in Clinton County. The eagle was found by a caller who heard gunfire near Alward Road next to the golf club.

Recommended Videos



The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering a cash reward of up to $2,500 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction.

"Anyone with information about this incident should come forward and talk to us about it so that we can apprehend the person responsible for this poaching incident," said Lt. Sherry Chandler, DNR Law Enforcement supervisor for the region. "Information can be left anonymously by calling the DNR's Report All Poaching (RAP) Line at 800-292-7800."

Bald eagles first received federal protection in 1940 and state protection 1954. They continue to be protected by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and the Michigan Endangered Species Protection law. Under these laws, a person may not kill, harass, disturb or otherwise harm bald eagles.

Bald eagles, the national emblem of our country, are one of two species of eagles found in the United States.

The birds typically mate for life.

Anyone with information is asked to call the DNR's Report All Poaching (RAP) Line at 800-292-7800.

Information can also be provided online at www.michigan.gov/conservationofficers. Tips can be provided anonymously.