Oklahoma Trooper Rescues Juvenile Bald Eagle

<p>Downum received the state's highest award for saving two boys c in the middle of a flooded Lake Eufaula, and we've learned he's also a friend to wildlife.</p>

Wednesday, March 30th 2016, 8:30 am

By: News On 6

Oklahoma Trooper Rescues Juvenile Bald Eagle

Trooper Trey Downum is one of Oklahoma's Trooper of the Year, and a friend to state wildlife. Downum received the state's highest award for saving two boys clinging to a piece of styrofoam and not wearing lifejackets in the middle of a flooded Lake Eufaula.

News On 6 reporter Tess Maune learned Downum and his family also helped a juvenile bald eagle recently.

He spotted the young, injured eagle while mushroom hunting Sunday.

Downum contacted federal and state game wardens, who coached him on the proper way to capture the bird. Once it was safely caged, a game warden took the eagle to a licensed rehab center, and we're told it's expected to make a full recovery.

The eagle has been named "Trooper," in honor of Downum.

Keep in mind, it's illegal to even help injured eagles, hawks, and owls unless you follow Trooper Downum's lead and get permission from a game warden first.