Bald Eagle Euthanized Due To Bird Flu: Shrewsbury Wildlife Rescue

SHREWSBURY, MA - A bald eagle was euthanized after it contracted bird flu, according to a Shrewsbury-based wildlife rescue service.

Raptor Tales Rescue, based out of Shrewsbury, posted a video of the bald eagle that was found in Townsend. The bird showed sudden and frequent head movements, a telltale sign of avian influenza.

The eagle was taken to the wildlife clinic and tested positive for bird flu. Infected carcasses are easy food for eagles, vultures, coyotes and foxes.

Several other Massachusetts health divisions advised the public to refrain from handling birds or other animals that are dead or appered sick. Reported cases in Brockton and Marlborough are examples of such encounters.

In January 2025 the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources issued updated guidelines regarding bird flu. The statement can be read here.

"We are incredible saddened by this loss of life and want to thank the finder for being so caring and proactive," the rescue clinic wrote on Facebook.