American bald eagle receiving well-earned rest after going missing in Bedfordshire
Aspen went missing after being mobbed by crows
A bird of prey centre in Bedfordshire says its "shy" American bald eagle is getting a well-earned rest after going missing earlier this week.
Aspen, the eagle, was mobbed by crows and chased out of sight from Herrings Green Activity Farm in Wilstead, near Bedford.
Aspen was found yesterday after the public helped come to the rescue by snapping pictures of him and letting the Centre know of his location.
Head Falconer at Herring Green Activity Farm, Sarah Hesford said: “People have been out looking physically themselves. They have tried so hard to help us to get Aspen back and without them, we would still be looking for him.
“So, a massive thank you to the public - they don't know how appreciated they are.”
She adds: “The relief, honestly, is unbelievable. There are few things more stressful as a falconer than to have a bird out and you don't know where they are and if they're okay.
“I've had Aspen for 18 years and I fly him every season without fail, and I have done since he was one year of age.
“You fall head over heels in love with them, you put your heart and soul into them, and if they're ever at risk or you just don't know where they are, it's one of the most stressful things I can think of.”
Despite being a huge bird with a 5.5ft wing span, the centre says he is a “shy and sensitive lad, scared of dogs and horses” and “absolutely no threat to either people or pets.”
Sarah says, “I think he's been doing a lot of panicking, a lot of flying around, not quite sure what to do with himself.
“So, he's in for a good rest over the next couple of days just to make sure he recoups well.”