Heartbroken owners of 'Hawk Walks Falconry Experiences NI', David and Jo, are appealing for the public’s help after their beloved Golden Eagle, Loki, managed to escape from his temporary aviary due to storm damage.
The incident occurred over the weekend, leaving the falconry owners in a frantic search for their "pride and joy."
In a heartfelt appeal, David and Jo shared their plea on social media:
“Our pride and joy Loki the Golden Eagle has escaped his mews. Due to storm damage over the weekend he was placed in a part time aviary which he has broken through.
“Our hearts are broken this evening after 3hrs frantically searching the local area of Magheramourne Co. Antrim. He will hopefully not travel too far and we are currently out with thermal imaging equipment to try and locate him as soon as possible.
“We are asking that anyone with sightings of him contact our page or call on 07592 160 671.
“We recognise that the general public will possibly see buzzards as possible sightings but this bird is huge in comparison with a 6ft wingspan and long braided jesses will be seen from his legs.
“Please do not approach him if spotted as he may well be wary of strangers, please just contact us and we will ensure to be there as soon as possible.
“Possible areas of interest at this stage are Magheramourne, Glynn, Larne, Ballycarry, Whitehead and Carrickfergus area. This may then extend over time as he moves each day.
“We have contacted our local farming community, our local postal service and refuse collectors in the area also.
“Please help us bring him home safe. I also ask that no one comments.... "better off free" as these comments will not help our situation in the fact he is a captive bred eagle. He will be in danger of not surviving on his own. Please respect that he is a family member and we are in deep panic at the loss of such. Thank you.”
Loki, known for his majestic 6-foot wingspan and identifiable by the long braided jesses on his legs, poses no threat to the public but might be cautious around strangers. The falconry centre has engaged local communities in the search, emphasising the urgency of the situation due to the eagle's inability to survive independently, being a captive-bred bird.
The falconry centre is using advanced equipment like thermal imaging to locate Loki. The public is urged to report any sightings but to avoid direct contact with the eagle to prevent causing him stress or injury.
David and Jo are hoping the community will rally to help bring Loki back to his home where he is not just a bird of prey, but a cherished member of David and Jo's family.