A harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja), also known in Brazil as the gavião-real and considered the largest eagle in the Americas, was rescued by firefighters at a fuel station in the municipality of Ariquemes, in the state of Rondônia, authorities said. The bird collided with a truck on the BR-364 federal highway and became lodged in the vehicle.
According to the fire department, the collision occurred in the municipality of Jaru. The eagle struck the truck’s windshield and became trapped between the cab and the cargo body. The driver did not notice the impact and continued driving for about 100 kilometers until reaching Ariquemes.
The bird was discovered only when the truck stopped at a fuel station, prompting firefighters to carry out a safe rescue operation. The eagle underwent medical examinations and is receiving appropriate care.
Veterinarian Karla Oliveira said the bird is a young adult male weighing about 3.8 kilograms. She said that despite its size and strength, the harpy eagle is a vulnerable species and can experience high levels of stress in situations such as this.
This animal suffered a scapulohumeral dislocation in the wing area and a dislocation of the femoral head, causing significant pain. As the species relies on its wings and talons to hunt, it is being closely monitored.
“This animal suffered a scapulohumeral dislocation in the wing area and a dislocation of the femoral head, causing significant pain. As it relies on its wings and talons to hunt, it is being closely monitored.
The animal is being kept in an enclosure to receive medication and undergo monitoring. It also underwent an ultrasound examination to check for possible internal organ damage and had blood tests to assess its overall health condition.
“It has been recovering well,” said Karla Oliveira.
After initial treatment, the eagle will be transferred to the Harpy Project, run by the Ariquemes municipal environment department, where it is expected to recover. Its condition is not considered serious, and a full recovery is expected.
Source: Amazon Agency