Appeal To Find Missing Eagle After Bird Spotted In Garden

(c) Huxley's Birds of Prey Centre

The owner of a bird of prey centre is appealing for public help after a missing eagle was spotted in a garden.

Cillian, a Chilean blue eagle, flew off during an appearance at the Cowpie Country Show in Lingfield, Surrey, on Sunday and has not yet returned.

Luke Lloyd, owner of Huxley's Birds of Prey Centre near Horsham, said the bird is believed to still be in the local area and urged anyone who spots it to get in touch.

He said:

"The public are fantastic and have really helped us out in the past.

"He's a fantastic little bird. This doesn't happen too often, but it's a risk that we take because you are giving them free choice."

Cillian, who has a wingspan of around five feet, has been with the centre for several years and is not considered likely to hunt for himself.

A sighting of the eagle was reported on Monday afternoon, but the bird had flown away before staff arrived.

Anyone who sees Cillian is being asked to contact Huxley's Birds of Prey Centre and, if possible, provide a photograph to help track his whereabouts.