U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Reverses Euthanasia Order for Rescued Bald Eagle in Tennessee
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has rescinded its directive to euthanize Phoenix, a rescued bald eagle in Tennessee. The initial order had mandated the bird's euthanasia by Monday, despite a veterinarian's recommendation for sanctuary placement and an agreement for a permanent home. Larry Eaton, an Athens, Tennessee, wildlife rescuer and town mayor, had been advocating for Phoenix's life. Phoenix, a 5-year-old female, suffered a fractured radius and ulna in her left wing and underwent surgery in April. Although she received physical therapy and rehabilitation at the Owl Ridge Raptor Center, her flying ability remains limited, making her unsuitable for release into the wild. After extensive efforts by Eaton, including contacting state and federal lawmakers, the Fish and Wildlife Service announced it is no longer recommending euthanasia and is actively exploring other options for the eagle's continued care. Phoenix is now slated for placement at Radnor Lake State Park in Nashville. 
