Kip’s Comments - March 17, 2026

WARNING - Graphic!

Road-kill Collateral Damage

Once again a bald eagle was killed as a result of feeding on a road-killed whitetail deer along a local highway.

Dead Bald Eagle - Image 1074201

A Bremer County deputy and I were hopeful we would be rescuing an injured eagle, but that was not the case. At the death scene, in addition to the whitetail deer - a doe - was the dead bald eagle and two dead whitetail deer fetuses.

Dead Whitetail Deer - Image 1074216

If motorists wonder why I frequently remove animals from the highway, it is to prevent these situations.

As sad as this situation was, seeing the fetuses provided for learning opportunities. Notice how the skin allows a good view of the vascular system. Also, see how the deer hooves appear to be hyper-developed. Ironically, one fetus has a broken leg - a situation any deer along a road faces sometime during its life. This was too early.

Dead Whitetail Deer Fetus - Image 1074253

Dead Whitetail Deer Fetus - Image 1074243

To bring this post something positive, I am including images of eagles photographed not far from the death scene.

Adult Bald Eagle - Close - Image 1074181

Adult Bald Eagle - Image 1074146