Conservation Officers investigate shooting of bald eagle near Eminence

EMINENCE -- Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating the shooting and subsequent death of a Bald Eagle that was discovered in Morgan County.

The eagle was located by a resident on private property near the town of Eminence in rural Morgan County on Wednesday, Feb. 1.

"It is a senseless shooting of our national bird and a federally threatened species," Conservation Officer Jon Fennig said.

The bald eagle is protected by the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Violations of these Acts could carry a fine of up to $250,000 and up to two years of imprisonment.

While officers are conducting their investigation, they are asking for any additional information from the public. Callers with information that leads to an arrest are eligible for a cash reward.

Anyone with information may call (800)-TIP-IDNR or visit www.1800tipidnr.org.