Port Tampa neighbors save bald eagle after fall from cell tower

• "It takes good Samaritans to be observant and see that the wildlife is in trouble," said Murrah, whose nonprofit rescue took in the bird Sunday.
• The center's first eagle intake of 2026 came on the heels of a busier-than-usual year for eagle rescues, Murrah told Axios.

State of play: The bird hit part of the tower and a car on the way down, witnesses of the fall told WFLA.

• Resident Michelle James and a friend who volunteers for Murrah's organization took the eagle to the center, per the TV station.
• The bird underwent X-rays at BluePearl Pet Hospital and — remarkably, Murrah said — was found to have no fractures.

The intrigue: It's unclear why she fell, Murrah said.

• "She's been living on that tower for several years. Why couldn't she get back up?" Murrah said.

What's next: The bird is now at the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey in Maitland for further testing and treatment.

How to help: If you think a bird of prey is in distress, call or text the center's hotline at 813-205-1851. To help rescue and transport it:

• Protect yourself with thick leather gloves, long sleeves and eye protection.
• Approach the bird with caution and use a blanket to secure its feet. Then gently pick it up and place it in a ventilated box or carrier.