Indiana authorities launch search for person who shot and killed bald eagle

Officials in Indiana are searching for a suspect in the shooting death of a bald eagle.

“Anyone with information is encouraged to contact DNR Law Enforcement Central Dispatch,” Indiana’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) tweeted about the Dec. 21 shooting.

Bald eagles, which are protected by several federal laws despite no longer being endangered, are fairly rare in Indiana. Only about 300 nests are known to exist in the state, according to the state’s DNR.

Violations of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act are considered felonies with a punishment of up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.