Surrounded by a supportive crowd from the Dunes-Calumet Audubon Society, Highland Redevelopment Commission, and Humane Indiana staff and board members, a mature Bald Eagle was triumphantly released back into the wild this past Friday in Lake County, Indiana.

This majestic eagle’s journey back to freedom began when it was admitted to Humane Indiana Wildlife’s facility, coated in a foreign substance that prevented it from flying. Thanks to a careful bathing process using Dawn Dish Soap and three weeks of recovery — allowing its feathers to naturally recoat in protective oils — the eagle regained its strength and was ready to return to its home skies.

The release is a symbol of hope for the species in the region. Recent surveys show at least seven active Bald Eagle nests in Lake County — a remarkable comeback from the near absence of these iconic birds just decades ago.

Source: Humane Indiana Wildlife