BY AMANDA HARRISON
State wildlife officials are hunting for a poacher who shot and killed a bald eagle last weekend.
Killing a bald eagle is a serious crime, the iconic bird is our national emblem and an endangered species.
Lieutenant Sherry Chandler is with the Department of Natural Resources. She said the penalties for shooting a bald eagle are severe.
"There could be jail time, there would be reimbursement to the state for taking a bird and also fines and costs, there is a schedule for the courts to follow on that." Chandler said.
There is a reward being offered to anyone with information on the suspect through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Anyone with information is asked to call 800-282-7800.