Cascade Raptor Center released an immature bald eagle today. It had been shot (five pellets hit the bird) and has been cared for by them for 3 weeks to heal a broken wing. The eagle was found laong the McKenzie River by a resident who used hip boots and a catcher's mitt to get him to shore. CRC was called to take the bird and care for it. Of course, the one responsible for this criminal act was not found.

The release drew a large crowd. Part of the occasion involved a Native American ceremony and a remembrance of a beloved supporter of the Raptor Center. The images show the crowd and preparations for release. Sorry about the only shot of the bird in flight, it's not good. The bird went a different direction than expected, almost straight up. This old guy was just too slow to adjust. I was very displeased with the photographer.