Denise Foster of the French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve releases the rehabilitated eagle back to its natural elements, with North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre’s Animal care supervisor Derek Downes assisting her. (Deb Freeman photo)

‘I have no words to describe it.’ Eagle released from wildlife recovery centre

April 3, 2023 // by Michael Briones

Share this:

Denise Foster was over the moon when she was given the honour of releasing a rehabilitated eagle from the North Island Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

And when she cradled the bird of prey on April 1 and then let it leave her her arms, watching it spread its mighty wings and soar into the air, Foster said, “I have no words to describe it.”

“It’s one of the best things I have ever experienced in my whole life,” said Foster, from the Save Estuary Land Society and selected in recognition of her role in the successful conservation of the French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve. “The eagle was so calm when I carried it. I felt its warmth and heartbeat. It was awesome.”

This is the first time the eagle release ceremony was held in front of spectators at NIWRC since the COVID pandemic began. The event is held annually in conjunction with the ongoing Brant Wildlife Festival.

The centre was packed with eager and excited people wanting to witness the freeing of the eagle. First Nations artist Bill Helin kicked things off with a drumming ceremony and send-off song.

But overall, smiles on everyone’s faces were abundant, as the eagle, after it had been released, hovered above the centre for a few moments, circling, before finally flying off.

For more information or to make a donation to the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre, visit niwra.org

Plan your adventures throughout the West Coast at westcoasttraveller.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @thewestcoasttraveller. And for the top West Coast Travel stories of the week delivered right to your inbox, sign up for our weekly Armchair Traveller newsletter!