MARLYAND- An investigation is underway after eagles, an owl, and other animals were found poisoned in Maryland's Kent and Talbot counties.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with Maryland Natural Resources Police, are asking public for information on a series of poisoning events on the Eastern Shore. The first incident, from March 1, occurred near Route 1 and Swan Creek Road in Chestertown. Six bald eagles and a great horned owl died as a result; other eagles were significant injuries but were able to be rescued and treated.

The activity is consistent with suspected ongoing and intentional poisoning of foxes, raccoons, and other nuisance animals in the area.

More eagle carcasses were discovered and reported by local land owners and property managers int that area.

On April 3, three bald eagles were found on a farm near Lewistown Road and Colby Road in Cordova poisoned. They had been feeding off a red fox carcass. Two were treated for poisoning and remain in stable condition while the third succumbed to its injuries.

MNR police say, "It is suspected that these events are related as a result of unknown persons placing baits laced with carbofuran, one of the most toxic carbamate pesticides, in fields, along woods lines and even directly into fox dens." They say they are disappointed and frustrated with the activity going on.

Although bald eagles are no longer listed under the Endangered Species Act, they are still federally protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

The USFWS is offering a reward of up to $10,000 to eligible individuals for information that furthers this investigation.

This year's first known poisoning happened in March. Authorities believe the birds were killed with the pesticide carbofuran, which was essentially banned from the nation's market partly due to it being lethal to birds. Authorities say the birds may have eaten bait laced with the pesticide, which is sometimes sold under the name Furadan.

Citizens who know about illegal fishing and hunting activities as well as the illegal killing of wildlife can make an anonymous report, 24/7, to Maryland Wildlife Crime Stoppers by calling or texting, 443-433-4112, email mwc.dnr@maryland.gov, or report violations using the department’s free mobile app.