GARDEN PENINSULA, Mich. (WZMQ) – Michigan Department of Natural Resources officials are hoping the public can shed light on a recent series of dead eagles found in the Garden Peninsula.
The Garden Peninsula is a piece of land that extends south from Delta County and is bordered by Big Bay de Noc to the west and Lake Michigan to the east. Between April 3 and April 17, five bald eagles were found dead in a single area.
“The DNR is requesting tips from the public to help solve this ongoing investigation,” said 1st Lt. Mark Zitnik, DNR Law Enforcement supervisor in Newberry. “We can confirm that the eagles did not die from natural causes, predators, or vehicle collisions.”
Eagles are a state and federally protected species. In addition to court costs, state penalties include a 90-day misdemeanor, fines ranging from $100 to $1,000 per eagle, and reimbursement of $1,500 per eagle. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and local Tribes are assisting the DNR with this investigation. Michigan DNR conservation officers are fully licensed law enforcement officers who provide natural resources protection, ensure recreational safety, and protect residents through general law enforcement and lifesaving operations in the communities they serve.
Tipsters who provide information leading to the arrest and prosecution of responsible individuals may be eligible for a cash reward. Anyone with information is asked to contact the DNR’s Report All Poaching Hotline by calling or texting 800-292-7800. Tipsters may remain anonymous.
