Eagle's Killer Sought: $20K Reward Offered

A substantial reward of $20,000 is being offered for information leading to a conviction in the fatal shooting of a bald eagle in southern Louisiana. The protected bird was discovered injured on December 5, 2025, in rural Vermilion Parish, and later died from what investigators determined were gunshot wounds. Despite receiving several tips, the case remains unresolved, prompting wildlife officials and conservation groups to increase the financial incentive in hopes of generating crucial leads.

The investigation into the shooting began after Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries agents found the injured eagle. The bird was transported for examination, and a necropsy by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service confirmed the fatal injury was consistent with a gunshot. This act is being investigated as a federal wildlife offense under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, which carries penalties of up to $5,000 in fines and a year in prison, along with potential civil restitution.

Conservation groups, including the Centre for Biological Diversity, have significantly contributed to the reward fund, which now includes contributions from Humane World for Animals, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Louisiana Operation Game Thief. Wildlife officials are urging anyone with information to contact Louisiana Operation Game Thief via hotline or the tip411 program, emphasizing that anonymity can be requested.