MULBERRY, Fla. – A bald eagle, a symbol of American freedom, was rescued in Mulberry on Sunday night thanks to a concerned citizen and the quick response of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) and the Raptor Center of Tampa Bay.
At approximately 11:00 p.m. on March 23rd, PCSO deputies were dispatched to a property in Mulberry following a call about a wildlife concern.
The caller, Andrew Johnson (yes, just like the 17th U.S. President), reported hearing a strange scratching noise outside his camper. Upon investigation, he discovered a bald eagle perched on a post with an apparently injured wing.
PCSO deputies arrived at the scene and confirmed the eagle’s distressed condition. They contacted the Raptor Center of Tampa Bay, who promptly dispatched volunteers Michelle Potts and Carlos Martinez to assist.
Deputies remained on scene to ensure the eagle did not escape into the nearby woods until the Raptor Center volunteers arrived. The volunteers took custody of the injured bird and conducted an initial evaluation. They determined the eagle had suffered a fractured wing.
READ: Rookie Polk County Deputy Arrested For Forging Victim’s Signature “Got It Handled”
The eagle will be transferred to a rehabilitation facility in Maitland for treatment. Once recovered, the bird will be returned to Mulberry for release back into the wild.
PCSO Sergeant Thomas dubbed the rescue operation “Operation: Saving Freedom,” highlighting the significance of the national symbol’s rescue.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
