On July 9, 2025, Anna Witte reached out to local bird enthusiasts Shahaila Dickson and Brad Hoy for assistance with an eagle she discovered in distress. The bird appeared unwell and malnourished, prompting concern for its well-being. Dickson and Hoy, who are closely affiliated with a bird rescue organization in the Lower Mainland, bring extensive local experience in handling such wildlife cases.
“Given the size of his beak, he is definitely between five and ten years old,” Dickson noted, assessing the eagle’s age with expertise.
For mature eagles that have established mates, when they fall ill and require intervention, it is standard practice to release them back to their original location, enabling them to reunite with their partner. After a seven-month period of careful observation and treatment, the eagle underwent a rehabilitation process that restored its health and vitality.
The day finally came for the eagle to be released back into the wild, on Feb. 15, 2026, at Cottonwood Park in Fort St. James.
A small gathering of conservationists and local residents eager to witness the event joined Hoy and Dickson to release the rejuvenated eagle back into its natural habitat at Stuart Lake. This release was not only a significant step in the eagle’s recovery journey but also offered the bird the opportunity to reunite with its mate, resuming its life in the wild. The event underscored the importance of wildlife rescue efforts and the dedication of those involved in preserving natural ecosystems.