‘Steve’ the eagle released at Widewater State Park today

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The bald eagle rescued by Stafford Animal Control was released today at Widewater State Park.

An Animal Control officer found the eagle – named ‘Steve’ by the child of the caller who alerted the Stafford Sherriff’s office – on the Potomac River in May.

According to a Stafford release, Steve was staying at the Wildlife Center of Virginia in Waynesboro, for rehabilitation.

“Stafford County is blessed with abundant natural resources and with that comes an array of wildlife. Our Animal Control officers do a wonderful job everyday ensuring that all our residents, both citizens and animals, can co-exist peacefully and safely. We are very pleased this eagle is coming home,” said Chairman of the Board of Supervisors Gary Snellings in a release.

More from a Stafford release:

Animal Control Officer Anthony McCall responded and flushed the bird from the water to the bank, where he was able to capture it safely. The bird was taken to the Wildlife Center where it was found to have a wrist injury and received medical care and rehabilitation services.

Stafford Animal Control handled 491 wildlife calls in 2014. Officers are trained in all types of animal investigations including criminal activity, cruelty, livestock, exotics and wildlife. Animal Control officers in Stafford are sworn law enforcement officers who conduct routine patrols in assigned areas and respond to complaints of citizens. Officers enforce the laws of the state and county for the purpose of compliance and education.