America’s national bird was recently saved from an unexpected situation.
The generally majestic bird collided with a car on Route 4 in Calvert County, Maryland, early Saturday, according to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office. The driver stopped the car and discovered that the eagle had survived the impact — but it was lodged in the front grill of the vehicle.
A photo shows the eagle stuck in place, positioned downwards with one of its wings splayed out over the front of the car. The eagle's white feathered head and yellow beak are swiveled toward the camera.
Calvert County Animal Control and the sheriff’s office said they rushed “into action to save a bald eagle!”
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Once the bird was removed, it was examined and found to be healthy.
Another photo shows the eagle carefully held in the arms of an animal control officer. The eagle’s beak is slightly open, as if in a smile.
The bald eagle was able to be released back into the wild.
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“Thanks to ACO [Animal Control Officer] Neel and all who helped rescue this wonderful creature!” the sheriff’s office wrote.