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Bald Eaglet Survives Emergency Surgery After Ingesting Hook

4/21/2026

33 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A two-week-old bald eaglet from the U.S. Steel nest in West Mifflin underwent emergency surgery after ingesting a fishing hook attached to a lure.
The event was captured on a live stream, prompting swift action by U.S. Steel and the Tamarack Wildlife Center.
Don German, who oversees the nest, described the emotional impact.
Dr. Jesse Fallon performed the surgery, which was deemed risky but successful, and USS11 is expected to return in a week.

History

Historical Context

The Bald Eagle Recovery Act, enacted in 1978, aimed to protect the bald eagle population, which had dwindled to about 417 nesting pairs due to habitat loss and pesticide use. This legislation followed earlier conservation efforts, including the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. Recent interventions, such as the emergency surgery of a bald eaglet in West Mifflin, highlight ongoing commitments to wildlife rehabilitation and protection.

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Story summary

A two-week-old bald eaglet from the U.S. Steel nest in West Mifflin underwent emergency surgery after ingesting a fishing hook attached to a lure.
The event was captured on a live stream, prompting swift action by U.S. Steel and the Tamarack Wildlife Center.
Don German, who oversees the nest, described the emotional impact.
Dr. Jesse Fallon performed the surgery, which was deemed risky but successful, and USS11 is expected to return in a week.

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