Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

69-Year-Old Swimmer Rescues Injured Bald Eagle

4/28/2025

44 6

Summary

Story summary

At 69, Doug Hay bravely swam 100 yards through a lake in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, to rescue an injured bald eagle on April 19. Ignoring the lurking threat of alligators, he reached the bird, which had been hurt in a fight. Now recovering at the Wildlife Center of Southwest Florida, Hay's minor injuries are a testament to his unwavering dedication to wildlife rescue.

1 of 1

Story summary

At 69, Doug Hay bravely swam 100 yards through a lake in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, to rescue an injured bald eagle on April 19. Ignoring the lurking threat of alligators, he reached the bird, which had been hurt in a fight. Now recovering at the Wildlife Center of Southwest Florida, Hay's minor injuries are a testament to his unwavering dedication to wildlife rescue.