Dead eagle found in Viroqua with talons missing

Viroqua, Wis. (AP) — Conservation wardens continue to
investigate after a bald eagle was found dead in Vernon County with
its talons missing.

The bird was found hanging from a tree east of Viroqua in early
February.

It appeared to have been dead for some time before it was
discovered. The cause of death hasn’t been determined but officials
say it wasn’t shot.

DNR conservation warden Dale Hochhausen says the eagle’s talons
had been removed.

Both federal and state law prohibit the harvesting or possession
of eagle parts, including feathers or talons.

Hochhausen says people who find a dead animal need to remember
it’s often illegal to collect the remains without first contacting
a warden to get a permit.