Bradenton, FL – On February 17, 2026, Bradenton Police Department officers rescued a bald eagle spotted in distress near 8th Street West and Manatee Avenue. The eagle, estimated to be 4–5 years old, was struggling to fly and was carefully detained in a patrol car for its own safety.

A good Samaritan first alerted authorities after noticing the bird’s difficulty. Wildlife, Inc. Education & Rehabilitation Center responded, transferring the eagle to an emergency veterinarian for treatment. Officials report that the bird is recovering from an infection in a prior wing fracture and is eating well. It enjoyed a rat for dinner last night, a sign of its improving condition.

Authorities and wildlife experts hope the eagle will make a full recovery and one day return to the skies above Bradenton. The rescue highlights the collaboration between community members, law enforcement, and wildlife professionals in protecting the area’s iconic animals.

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