Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: Bald Eagle

A Tragic but Preventable Loss:

These two immature bald eagles were found together in Stafford County, VA, just a few weeks ago. At first, they showed severe neurological symptoms—but within 12 hours, both were completely unresponsive.

Despite immediate treatment and intensive care, neither eagle regained consciousness, and both were humanely euthanized to end their suffering.

Initial tests ruled out Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), heavy metal toxicity, and rodenticide poisoning. But one test confirmed our veterinary team’s suspicion: pentobarbital toxicity was the cause of death.

What is pentobarbital?

It’s a drug commonly used to humanely euthanize animals. After administration, the drug remains in body tissues—especially in organs like the liver. Scavengers like bald eagles and vultures, who naturally clean up carrion (dead animals), are often drawn to these nutrient-rich parts.

Unfortunately, ingesting the remains of euthanized animals can result in fatal poisoning for wildlife. This wasn’t the first case like this in the area—and sadly, likely won’t be the last.

The risk is real—but it’s preventable.

Proper disposal of euthanized animals is crucial. While vet hospitals like ours follow incineration protocols, some pets and livestock are buried on private property.

If that’s the case, they must be buried at least 3 feet deep, far from water sources, utility lines, flood zones, and tree roots. Cremation is recommended if an animal died of a contagious disease, and future property owners should be informed of any remains on site.

If you’re a veterinarian, shelter worker, pet owner, or livestock producer—please be aware.

Pentobarbital poisoning is almost always the result of improper disposal. This is something we can fix. Veterinarians, in particular, have a responsibility to educate clients about safe burial practices. Protecting wildlife and our environment starts with responsible, informed care—even after death.

These two young eagles deserved a future. Let’s work together to make sure other scavengers don’t meet the same fate.

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