The Michigan DNR is investigating after five bald eagles were found dead on the Garden Peninsula between April 3 and April 17. Officials say preliminary findings show the birds did not die from natural causes, predators, or vehicle collisions, and they are exploring possible human involvement. The DNR posted the incident as a 'troubling case' and is asking the public to report tips to the Report All Poaching Hotline at 800-292-7800. Bald eagles are protected under state and federal law, and violations carry significant fines and possible jail time.
Five Bald Eagles Found Dead on Michigan's Garden Peninsula; DNR Investigates Possible Foul Play
Five dead bald eagles found in the same area in Michigan's Upper Peninsula between April 3 and April 17Credit: ichigan Department of Natural Resources
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has launched an investigation after five bald eagles were found dead in the same area of the Upper Peninsula's Garden Peninsula over a two-week span in April.
What Happened
Between Friday, April 3 and Friday, April 17, five dead bald eagles were discovered on the Garden Peninsula, which extends south from Delta County and is bordered by Lake Michigan to the east and Big Bay de Noc to the west. The DNR posted a photo of the deceased birds on Facebook and described the situation as a 'troubling case.'
Investigation Status
First Lt. Mark Zitnik, a DNR Law Enforcement supervisor based in Newberry, said investigators have confirmed that 'the eagles did not die from natural causes, predators or vehicle collisions.' Those findings have prompted officials to look into possible human involvement. The DNR issued a public notice on Monday, April 27, asking residents and visitors to report any information that could help determine the cause of death.
Legal Protections and Penalties
Bald eagles are protected under both state and federal law. Under Michigan law, intentionally harming a bald eagle can result in a misdemeanor charge, fines ranging from $100 to $1,000 per bird, reimbursement of $1,500 per eagle, and court costs. At the federal level, the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act prohibits the taking of eagles, their parts, nests, or eggs without a permit. Violation of the federal statute can lead to fines of up to $100,000 for individuals (or $200,000 for organizations) and up to one year imprisonment for a first offense, or both.
How to Report Tips
Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the case to contact the DNR’s Report All Poaching Hotline online or by calling or texting 800-292-7800. Tipsters may remain anonymous, and information that leads to an arrest and prosecution could be eligible for a cash reward.
Note: Bald eagles are federally protected. Anyone who sees suspicious activity around wildlife or suspects a crime should report it to local authorities or the DNR hotline.
The DNR continues to investigate. Officials urge the public to report any sightings or relevant information that could help determine the cause of these deaths.
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