Two golden-hearted brothers of Sudbury, Ontario, not only saved the life of one of America’s most recognizable mascots, they also got a bonus with a selfie that’s spread across the interwebs like a wildfire.
Brothers Michael and Neil Fletcher were out hunting in the Canadian wilderness when they stumbled upon a bald eagle caught in a hunter’s trap. It had a single talon caught in a claw trap that is commonly used by fur harvesters.
The Fletchers contemplated putting a call in to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, but ultimately decided it was better to free the majestic bird as soon as possible.
“[The trap] was attached to a stake and the eagle was trying to fly up, but it only had a foot of slack in the chain," Michael said.
Michael shrouded the agitated raptor in his hoodie and it quickly calmed down, allowing them time to get to work on the trap.
"Me and my brother just kind of held onto it, and it calmed right down," Michael continued. "It didn't really fuss or give any sign of aggression. I don't know if it knew we were helping him, or what.”
The brothers successfully released the trap and, since the eagle seemed complacent while in Michael’s arms, took a selfie that soon went viral on social media.
Both brothers were simply astounded by the creature. Bald eagles can grow up to nearly three feet in height with a wingspan that can reach nearly eight feet in length. There’s a reason bald eagles are designated as apex predators.
"I was surprised by the size, and that it's such a beautiful bird," said Michael. "When you see the eyes up close, they're really amazing.”
See the video of the release below: