ERATH — Louisiana wildlife agents and federal investigators are looking for information about the illegal shooting and killing of a bald eagle found in Vermilion Parish last year.

The eagle was discovered at the intersection of Robert and Wilmer Road, near Erath, on Dec. 5, 2025. According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, agents were notified about an injured eagle, located it and brought it in for examination.

A necropsy determined the eagle had a fatal wound consistent with a gunshot. The eagle died shortly after it was found and was sent to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for a more detailed examination.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and USFWS have been working the case together. Investigators say they have received numerous tips and are still looking for more information.

A reward of up to $20,000 is being offered to anyone with information that leads to a conviction. The reward includes $13,000 from the Center for Biological Diversity, $3,500 from the Humane World for Animals, $2,500 from USFWS and up to $1,000 from Louisiana Operation Game Thief.

Killing a bald eagle is a federal violation and carries penalties of up to a $5,000 fine, one year in jail and a civil restitution fine of up to $5,000.

Anyone with information can call the Louisiana Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-442-2511. Tips can also be submitted by texting LADWF and a tip to 847411 or by downloading the free "LADWF Tips" app. The hotline and tip program are monitored 24 hours a day and callers can remain anonymous upon request.