Relief has finally come for bird watchers as the missing Decorah Eagle DH3 was found and rescued on July 14, 2026. After several anxious days where the fledgling was missing from the Decorah nest cameras, the young eagle was discovered near the fish hatchery with a right wing issue.
A local resident found the grounded juvenile near the Decorah Fish Hatchery and reported the eagle to wildlife officials. Winneshiek County Conservation later completed the rescue and transported the young bird to SOAR for professional care. Raptor Resource Project camera moderators reviewed the information and identified the rescued eagle as DH3.
Receive updates like this one in your inbox. Sign up for our newsletter. 🦅
Rescuers Found Decorah Eagle DH3 Near the Fish Hatchery
DH3 appeared fairly thin and somewhat dehydrated after arriving at SOAR. However, the young eagle remained alert and feisty. The initial examination found an issue involving DH3’s right wing. A blood test for lead will also be done as a standard procedure.
Watch DH3 Soar Over Decorah on July 10
The video below shows DH3 in the Decorah nest tree on July 10, 2026. July 10 marked the last day cameras captured the young eagle before the rescue.
video: tulsaducati on YouTube
Watch Live <— nest cam
In the video, DH3 perches on a tree branch and carefully preens its feathers. The young eagle then launches into flight and soars over the lush forest surrounding the Decorah nest.
The peaceful footage offers another look at DH3 before the days of uncertainty began. Nothing in the footage explains how or when the right wing issue developed. However, the video captures the young eagle doing exactly what fledglings need to do: explore, practice, and build independence beyond the nest.
DH3 hatched on March 27, 2026, and fledged alongside DH4 on June 18. Since then, viewers have watched both young eagles return to the nest area while learning to fly, explore, and become more independent.
Send your well-wishes to DH3 with a comment below. ♥️
Frequently Asked Questions About DH3
What is wrong with DH3?
A local resident found Decorah eagle DH3 with a right wing issue.
Why test DH3 for lead?
Lead testing is standard because bald eagles eat fish, carrion, and other easy food sources. They may ingest tiny lead ammunition fragments while feeding on animal remains or gut piles left by hunters. Eagles can also encounter lead through lost fishing tackle attached to fish or discarded near waterways. Because even small amounts can cause serious harm, rehabilitation centers routinely test admitted bald eagles for lead exposure.
Does the lead test mean DH3 has lead poisoning?
No. The test is routine.