Kayaker’s Heart Stops When He Sees Unexpected Creature Peering From Reeds

While navigating the serene South River in Maryland, a kayaker encountered an unexpected gaze from the reeds. What he saw left him stunned.

He never thought he’d come across such an incredible sight.

Injured Animal

That same day, local bird rescuer Donna Cole learned about an eagle struck by a car on a nearby highway.

A Maryland police officer reached the scene before Donna, redirecting traffic away from the distressed bird seeking refuge near the river.

Another story you will enjoy : This Dog's Pre-Meal Ritual Will Melt Your Heart and Make You Smile

Frustration set in when Donna arrived and realized the bird had nestled in an almost unreachable spot.

“It was a deeply wooded area with brambles and sticky bushes, making it impossible to retrieve the eagle,” Donna shared with The Dodo.

Realizing the land rescue was futile, Donna decided the rescue needed to be executed from the water.

Difficult Rescue

Donna reached out to John Flood, a board member of the Arundel Rivers Federation, who had a boat and was eager to assist.

Another story you will enjoy : The Unbelievable Rescue Under the Bridge: A Tale of Survival and Hope

“John was immediately up for the adventure,” Donna added.

As they navigated the river, the rescuers quickly spotted the eagle. Unfortunately, it slipped away again, leaving them baffled.

Under the scorching sun, they continued their search but had no luck, so they decided to call it a day.

As Donna prepared for another attempt, she received a call from the Owl Moon Raptor Center, informing her that a kayaker had seen the eagle on the opposite riverbank. Elation filled Donna.

“It felt like two miracles — the officer finding the eagle initially and the kayaker locating it again,” Donna exclaimed.

Another story you will enjoy : Construction Workers' Touching Rescue: A Timid Pup's Unlikely Journey to Happiness

Second Try

Determined, Donna and John headed back to the river… resolute to retrieve the bird.

“We’ve come this far. We need to get this bird the help it needs,” echoed Donna’s sentiments.

The rescuers soon found the kayaker patiently waiting near the eagle.

John navigated through the shallow waters, getting as close as possible while Donna leapt into the mud to seize the bird.

Despite losing a shoe in her efforts, Donna successfully captured the injured eagle and placed it safely in the boat.

Another story you will enjoy : Abandoned Puppies' Cries Lead to Heartwarming Rescue You Won't Believe

The bird was swiftly transported to the Owl Moon Raptor Center, where it would receive necessary treatment.

Donna was overjoyed and immensely thankful to everyone who played a role in this rescue. This event is etched in her memory.

“This was the most challenging and gratifying rescue I’ve ever undertaken. Finally securing the bird was a massive relief,” Donna concluded.

• Facebook