(CNN) Authorities are looking for whoever shot and killed a female bald eagle found late last month in southeastern Arkansas.

The body of the protected bird, the national symbol of the US, was found in Drew County on March 28, according to the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission

The AGFC said the bird's body was found near a nest and they believe she was tending to it at the time of her death. The eagle was transferred to Little Rock Zoo, where it was determined she died of a gunshot wound.

"A reward of up to $6,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible," the AGFC said in a statement.

Read More