$5,000 Reward for Info on Killer of Bald Eagle in Broome County

Federal investigators have posted a reward as they seek the person who shot a bald eagle while it was perched in a tree north of Binghamton.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, someone filed a complaint about the shooting of a duck or goose in the town of Nanticoke.

Investigators determined that the bird that was shot actually was a bald eagle. It apparently was in a tree on the edge of a field near 1022 Nanticoke Road.

A forensic exam revealed the eagle died due to a gunshot wound sustained from a high-caliber rifle projectile.

The shooting is believed to have occurred between 9 and 9:30 a.m. on April 3.

A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information that leads to those who responsible for the eagle's death.

People with information about the shooting may contact Fish and Wildlife Service special agent Ryan Bessey at (716) 691-3635.

Bald eagles are federally protected by Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Violators could face fines of up to $100,000 and up to one year in prison.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 772-8400 extension 233.

For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

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Source: $5,000 Reward for Info on Killer of Bald Eagle in Broome County