Local wildlife rehabber Tommy Young will release a male bald eagle on Saturday, February 13, 2021 at 2:00 pm. The eagle will be released at the vista overlook on Hickory Nut Mountain near Mt. Ida, Arkansas.
Mr. Young has been rehabilitating wildlife since he was a teen and is authorized by the US government to care for injured eagles. This eagle was received with a broken leg and has had a titanium pin inserted. The 13th of February was chosen as this will be the 113th bald eagle cared for and released back to the wild by Mr. Young.
This event is suitable for families and all ages. There is no charge to attend. Donations are gratefully accepted, however, as this important work receives no government funding and is supported solely by donations.
The event will be attended by various indigenous tribes for whom the eagle is an important symbol.
The location provides an excellent viewpoint to watch the newly released eagle for quite a distance. Inclement weather will move the event to Sunday, February 14th at 2 p.m.
Hickory Nut Mountain Vista and Picnic Area are located just off Highway 270 east of Joplin.The turn off for Hickory Nut Mountain is located about 13 miles East of Mount Ida on your left, or 23 miles West of Hot Springs on your right, approximately 1.3 miles West of the Garland/Montgomery county line. Follow Hickory Nut Mountain Road as it climbs the mountain, taking the Left fork at 1.0 mile. At 3.5 miles is a sign on your left for the picnic area. The road ends at 4.2 miles at the vista overlook, where the eagle will be released.