National Aviary Continues Search for Escaped Eagle Named Kodiak

Today marked the third day in the National Aviary's search for an escaped Steller's sea eagle named Kodiak, zoo officials said. The 4-foot-long, brown and white eagle has lived at the National Aviary, located in Pennsylvania, for approximately 15 years, and officials with the zoo are anxious for him to return home.

Kodiak escaped his enclosure on Saturday after being "startled," UPI reported. According to tweets made by the zoo on Sunday, the bird's habitat had been "compromised in one area."

"What we do know is that Kody's habitat, like all habitats at the National Aviary, is carefully designed with the safety and comfort of our birds as our highest priority, and they are checked daily by our staff," National Aviary staff said in a Facebook post on Monday.

"The heavy gauge wire that is in place for Kodiak's safety on Saturday morning had a gap in one area that was not there before—this is extremely unusual," the zoo explained.

Though Kodiak has been missing for several days, the zoo explained that eagles are "resilient."

"While our efforts continue, it is important to note that eagles are very resilient birds and in the wild, they do not eat every day," National Aviary tweeted. "Kodiak is in excellent health and body condition, and this species is acclimated to a multitude of weather conditions."

On its website, the San Diego Zoo described the Steller's sea eagle as "one of the rarest raptors in the world." And with 3,600-3,800 mature individuals alive in the wild, the species is listed as "vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List.

According to National Geographic, Steller's sea eagles are native to Russia, and many migrate to Japan and Korea in the winter. They predominantly eat fish, but they also feast on squid, small animals, ducks and shellfish. As such, they tend to build their nests near coasts or bodies of water.

Those with the zoo warn locals to not approach Kodiak if they spot him. Instead, individuals should call the National Aviary.

"[P]lease maintain your position and sight of him, but do not make noises, movements, or open doors or windows in an attempt to get a closer look," the zoo tweeted.

"When our team arrives, please provide space for them to work to get Kody home. We have multiple teams on the ground, and they are prepared to respond quickly to credible Kody sightings."

The aviary announced that it will be closed on Tuesday as the team continues to devote its full attention to finding Kodiak

"Continued prayers for safe return," said one Facebook commenter.

"Oh no! Hoping to hear good news about his safe return very soon," said another.