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WILDLIFE volunteers were on the verge of tears to see an eagle soar and circle the sands and shore of Jervis Bay, after rescuing it five months ago, and releasing it into the wild on Thursday afternoon.
The awe-inspiring moment at Greenfields Beach was a stark contrast to the day the white-breasted sea eagle was found at the same place, emaciated and on the brink of death.
It’s a vulnerable species and its carer Penny McDonald still isn’t confident the eagle will survive the next 12 months.
“Young raptors have a hard time in the wild,” she said.
“Only 20 to 30 per cent survive the first two years of life.”
Despite spending five months of the first year of its life in care being treated for severe head and spinal concussion, Mrs McDonald believes its survival instincts will activate now it’s in the wild.
“What made me happy was that she wasn’t just circling, she was going both ways, flying against the wind, that was all perfect,” she said.
“She was also watching the ground, following her instincts and looking for species of fish.”
Mrs McDonald had hoped for funding to track the eagle via satellite.
However, wildlife volunteers will instead rely on tip offs from the public.
Vincentia local Robyn Neeson found and named Vincent the eagle, and was there for its release.
“I must say that Vincent looked magnificent and I had a tear or two of happiness to see her flying so well,” she said.
“She took to the skies and perched on a large tree just near where we originally found her.
“She soared into the air, and glided magnificently before heading south.
“Please keep an eye out for her around Greenfields and report any sightings.”
If you see Vincent, please contact Wildlife Rescue South Coast on 1300 094 737 or 0418 427 214.
To follow Peggy’s work with local species, like the Higher Ground Raptors Facebook Page.