ESCANABA, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – State officials are counting on Michigan residents to shed light on recently deceased eagles in Delta County.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says five bald eagles were found dead in the Garden Peninsula, a piece of land bordered by Big Bay de Noc and Lake Michigan, between April 3 and April 17.
First Lt. Mark Zitnik, DNR Law Enforcement supervisor in Newberry, said investigators need help from the public. “We can confirm that the eagles did not die from natural causes, predators or vehicle collisions.”
Tipsters, who can remain anonymous, can contact the DNR’s Report All Poaching Hotline by calling or texting 800-292-7800.
Eagles are a state and federally protected species. Punishment for such a crime is a 90-day misdemeanor that includes reimbursement of court costs and fines ranging from $100 to $1,000 per eagle. In addition, there are reimbursement costs of $1,500 per eagle.
