Video: Bald eagle shot in Bainbridge Island woods

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BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, Wash. – The search is on for a suspect who shot a bald eagle on Bainbridge Island.

The critically injured bird was found in a densely wooded area on the south end of the island near Blakely Harbor, and authorities believe the shooter was in that area.

"We found out he had been shot. We found a wound in the leg area and some wounds around the throat," said Mike Pratt, West Sound Wildlife Shelter. "We have had a lot of difficulty. It's been touch and go with her ever since she was brought in. We've been having trouble getting her to eat."

Despite their majestic beauty, some consider them a nuisance, and because of their improving numbers, eagles are no longer on the endangered species list. But disturbing or shooting an eagle still carries a $10,000 fine and possible jail time.

"I've heard people complain that, one, they're noisy, and two, they make a mess because sometimes they will catch things and eat it and drop it on their property," said Pratt.

As the eagle's health improves, she'll be moved into a larger pen. But complete rehabilitation may take a couple of months, and there's not guarantee that they will ever be able to release her.

"If she's not releasable, we might have to euthanize her or maybe try to find an educational facility," said Pratt.

Everyone at the center hopes she will be able to return to the wild and grace the skies once again.

Anyone with information on this eagle shooting should contact State Fish and Wildlife.