Authorities are looking for someone who shot and killed a female bald eagle last month in Arkansas.

The eagle – the national emblem of the US – was found in Drew County in southeastern Arkansas on March 28, according to the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

After it was found, the body of the bird was taken to Little Rock Zoo, where it was revealed to have died from gunshot wounds, according to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

“The female eagle’s body was found near a nest, and it is believed that the bird was tending the nest at the time of death,” the AGFC said.

The AGFC also said a joint investigation has been launched and “a reward of up to $6,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible”.

Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade Show all 10 1 /10 Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade African greys during transportation Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade An African grey parrot kept as a pet in Scotland World Animal Protection Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade Birds caged in Qatar; feather plucking caused by stress and boredom is common in captive birds World Animal Protection Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade An African grey parrot kept as a pet in Scotland World Animal Protection Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade An African grey parrot kept as a pet in Scotland World Animal Protection Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade An African grey parrot kept as a pet in Scotland World Animal Protection Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade Poached African greys are caged before being taken to Kinshasa, from where they are trafficked World Animal Protection Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade Birds being put in a basket for transport to market TL2 project / Lukuru foundation Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade African greys crammed into crates for transportation Endangered African grey parrots trafficked for the pet trade African greys crammed into crates

In the US, the bald eagle is protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Lacey Act.

Although the species was removed from the list of endangered species in 2007, it is still illegal to harm one of the birds, with those found guilty of killing or injuring a bald eagle facing possible prison time.

In addition to a maximum sentence of two years in prison, perpetrators also face a fine of $250,000 under the law.

The bald eagle has been the emblem of the US since 1782 and is meant to represent freedom.

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