NYPD Harbor Division officers successfully rescued an injured bald eagle discovered floating on ice in the Hudson River, as reported on Tuesday.
While patrolling the area at approximately 9:27 a.m., the officers heard the distressed calling of the eagle, which was found clinging to a piece of ice in the frigid waters. They navigated their boat through the ice and positioned it next to the stranded bird.
Body camera footage showed one officer extending a long pole to capture the eagle and bring it to safety. “It’s okay, brother. I think he’s okay,” one officer reassured the others, while another officer urged for closer approach, holding the bird wrapped in a yellow tarpaulin.
Once secured, the eagle was placed on the police boat, enveloped in a blanket, and transported to a pet carrier for further care.
The NYPD praised the officers for their quick action, stating they efficiently moved the bird to a safe place. An NYPD spokesperson later confirmed that the eagle was taken to a sanctuary for treatment of its injuries.
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, bald eagles migrate to New York in winter, starting in December, with peak numbers in January and February before returning to their nests by mid-March.
It’s interesting how during cold spells, birds often flock to areas with open water, especially where ice has formed. Popular winter viewing locations have been identified as the Hudson River, parts of the St. Lawrence River, and even Onondaga Lake, where birdwatching has notably increased in recent years.
