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About "Challenger"
Challenger is a non-releasable Bald
Eagle cared for by the non-profit American Eagle Foundation. Since
1991, this majestic bird has been a free-flying educational ambassador
for his recovering species in the wild. He was blown from his
Louisiana nest in a storm at five weeks of age — was rescued and
hand-raised by well-meaning people. As a result, he became
human-imprinted for life.
Named in honor of the lost space
shuttle crew, Challenger has performed free-flights during
the USA's National Anthem at hundreds of events coast to coast —
raising substantial public awareness for the Bald Eagle protection
cause. He is the first Bald Eagle in American history trained to
free-fly into stadiums and arenas during the singing of the Star
Spangled Banner. He has helped educate millions of people about the
need to protect the USA's National Bird.
Once on the brink of extinction,
the Bald Eagle has made a successful come-back to the USA's lands,
waterways and skies. In June 2007, our nation's living symbol of
freedom was removed from Endangered Species Act protection. Its
dramatic recovery is an American success story attained by caring
people working together. It will now be up to every United States
citizen to keep this precious national treasure flying strong and free
for future generations |
