A Feathered Friend Finds a New Home at Abq BioPark
Rescue and Rehabilitation Success Story
A remarkable journey culminated on December 17, 2025, as a rescued golden eagle, affectionately named Danny Boy, took up residence at the ABQ BioPark Zoo in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The eagle’s transition to the zoo was made possible through the collaborative efforts of local organizations, particularly Hawks Aloft, a nonprofit dedicated to rehabilitating birds of prey.
From Injury to Recovery
Discovered by BNSF Railway inspector Michael Judd in February 2025, Danny Boy was found struggling along remote rail tracks in northwestern New Mexico. Judd, recognizing the urgency of the situation, rescued the injured bird and contacted Hawks Aloft for assistance. “I couldn’t just leave him out there,” Judd recounted, reflecting on the moment he realized he was transporting an eagle in his vehicle.
Upon arrival at Hawks Aloft, Danny Boy faced significant health challenges, including severe malnourishment and a deep knee wound. Hawks Aloft’s Executive Director, Gail Garber, noted that the eagle also suffered from a shoulder infection that ultimately rendered him unable to fly. Despite these hurdles, Danny Boy’s resilient spirit shone through during his 184 days of recovery.
A New Beginning at the Zoo
After extensive medical care, including surgery and weight management, Danny Boy was deemed unreleasable due to his condition. However, his new home at the BioPark provides him with a comfortable and engaging environment. The Raptor Roost habitat, designed for birds of prey, allows visitors to appreciate his majestic presence up close. “We’re very honored to have him here,” said BioPark Curator of Birds, Karen Waterfall. “This is a special opportunity for visitors.”
Community Engagement and Conservation
Danny Boy’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation and the role of community members in rescuing injured animals. Judd emphasizes the need for compassion and caution when encountering wildlife. “Be kind to animals, but also be cautious,” he advises, noting that even injured birds can pose a danger with their sharp talons and beaks.
The partnership between Hawks Aloft and the ABQ BioPark highlights the critical role of organizations in wildlife rehabilitation and education. As visitors learn about Danny Boy and his journey, they are also encouraged to support conservation efforts and consider how human activities impact raptor populations, particularly in light of threats like habitat loss and wind turbine collisions.
Looking Ahead
As Danny Boy acclimates to his new home, he not only represents a success story of rehabilitation but also serves as an ambassador for bird conservation in New Mexico. The ABQ BioPark Zoo continues to emphasize the importance of educating the public about the vulnerabilities of wildlife and the need for ongoing conservation efforts.
