Colorado Officials Share Update In Relation To Illegal Bald Eagle Shooting

Last week, Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials asked the public for tips in the illegal shooting of a bald eagle that occurred around January 12th in Northglenn, a town just north of Denver. The organization is still seeking tips in the investigation, but they did share some news in relation to the injured animal.

We're looking for tips relating to a bald eagle shot with a ball bearing near Croke Reservoir in Northglenn on 1/12. That's near 104th & Huron. A ball bearing was found in its wing during treatment.

You can report tips anonymously to 1-877-265-6648https://t.co/yRXEj0PRCc pic.twitter.com/mf12d6wQ1B

— CPW NE Region (@CPW_NE) January 26, 2026

The bald eagle had been shot by a ball bearing in the wing, requiring surgery to remove the metal projectile. Many people inquired on the animal’s condition, and a recent social media post shared by CPW NE Region provided a bit more information.

“Many of you have asked how the bald eagle’s recovery is going. She’s got a long road ahead of her and progress will be slow. We appreciate all the well wishes.” – CPW NE Region

Bald eagles are both federally and state protected species under the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, making the shooting or injury of one illegal. CPW is still taking tips about the shooting, which can be submitted Operation Game Thief (OGT) at 1-877-265-6648 or game.thief@state.co.us.

Tips to OGT can be made anonymously. Additionally, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service can be contacted at 1-844-397-8477 or fws_tips@fws.gov. 

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