SAN DIEGO (CBS 8) - An injured bald eagle has been released back into the wild after the Fund for Animals Wildlife Center in Ramona nursed it back to health.
"We thought he could be here anywhere from a full month to three months. To have him back out in three weeks - it's an awesome feeling really," said Ali Crumpacker.
The eagle known only as 3435 underwent some final testing before being set free.
Andrew Hix, 23, found the eagle in some brushes when he was out hiking in Ramona with his brother. He said the eagle was clearly weak and could not fly. He wrapped it up in clothing and called his mom to pick them up.
After undergoing some testing, doctors discovered he had the West Nile virus. In a matter of a few days the eagle began to show signs of improvement.
The eagle will not be tracked by GPS. Instead, a small band was placed on it so it can be identified in the wild.
Officials at The Fund for Animals Wildlife Center said the eagle is the first adult eagle they have cared for in at least a decade.
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