BIRMINGHAM, Ala.— The Center for Biological Diversity today increased the reward to $15,000 for information leading to a conviction in the illegal killing of a bald eagle in northern Alabama. The mature American bald eagle was found with several shotgun pellets lodged in the carcass, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The Service has offered a $2,500 reward, and the Center is boosting the amount by $12,500.

“This majestic bird didn’t deserve a heartbreaking death, and whoever killed them must be brought to justice,” said Will Harlan, a senior scientist at the Center. “This cowardly act against America’s national bird can’t go unpunished. I hope someone steps forward with information.”

The bird’s carcass was found Dec. 8 near Mount Hope, about 50 miles southwest of Huntsville. The Service and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources are leading a joint investigation into the killing.

Bald eagles are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Violations of these acts carry maximum criminal penalties of up to $250,000 in fines and two years in federal prison.

Bald eagles are found throughout Alabama, especially along rivers, coasts and lakes. More than 100 nests have been observed in recent surveys by the state.

Anyone with information about the killings should contact U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Special Agent Brad Rabalais at (601) 331-0292 or the Alabama Game Watch Hotline at (800) 272-4263.

Background

Bald eagles are the only eagles unique to North America, and they were chosen by Congress as the nation's symbol in 1782.

Bald eagles have a 7-foot wingspan and can live more than 30 years in the wild. They develop their iconic white head around age four. Adults mate for life and raise their young together. Illegal shooting, habitat destruction and lead poisoning remain primary threats to bald eagles.

The bald eagle was one of the first species protected under the 1967 precursor to today's Endangered Species Act. As a result of habitat protection, the federal government’s banning of the insecticide DDT, and national conservation efforts, the bald eagle had recovered enough to be removed from protection under the Act in 2007. The bald eagle's comeback is a testament to the power and success of the Endangered Species Act.