Bald Eagle Rescued In Mansfield Now 'Resting Comfortably'

MANSFIELD, CT — The bald eagle escuse after it hit power lines in Mansfield Monday is now "resting comfortably."

That was the word from Ashford-based Horizon Wings Raptor Rehabilitation and Education center, which helped facilitate the eagle's move to a veterinary facility at Tufts.

"The Eagle is resting comfortably at this point and x-rays will be done today," Horizon officials said. "On admission, he had blood coming from inside his mouth and his beak. X-rays will determine any further damage. Due to the holiday, we may not receive another update until after Christmas."

Passersby and state police helped save the bald eagle after it had crashed into a set of power lines along a tricky stretch of road in Mansfield early Monday morning.

State police said the eagle was spotted hitting the wires in the area of Ravine Road and Route 32 and witnesses told state police the bird fell straight to the ground after the incident.

Concerned motorists stopped, confirmed the eagle was still alive and helped protect it from traffic and further danger, state police said. One helper said the eagle was nearly hit twice while they were waiting for help to arrive, according to a state police report.

Sight lines on the stretch of road can be challenging.

Mansfield Resident Trooper Ashley Fillian responded to the scene and David Stevens, a Connecticut-licensed falconer who happened to be in the area, also stopped to assist, according to an incident report. The eagle was safely contained and kept calm until transport arrangements were made, state police said.

The eagle was then transported by Horizon Wings to Tufts Wildlife Clinic for evaluation and care.