Michigan DNR conservation officers are requesting assistance with any information regarding five deceased eagles that were located in Delta County’s Garden Peninsula April 3-17. Anyone with information is asked to contact the DNR’s Report All Poaching Hotline by calling or texting 800-292-7800. Tipsters may remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward. (Photo courtesy of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources)

DELTA COUNTY — Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) officials are seeking information on a recent series deceased eagles in the Garden Peninsula.

According to a news release, five bald eagles were found dead in a single area between April 3 and April 17.

“The DNR is requesting tips from the public to help solve this ongoing investigation,” said 1st Lt. Mark Zitnik, DNR Law Enforcement supervisor in Newberry. “We can confirm that the eagles did not die from natural causes, predators or vehicle collisions.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the DNR’s Report All Poaching Hotline by calling or texting 800-292-7800. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

Those who provide information leading to the arrest and prosecution of any individuals may be eligible for a cash reward, according to the MDNR.

Eagles are a state and federally protected species. In addition to court costs, state penalties include a 90-day misdemeanor; fines ranging from $100 to $1,000 per eagle; and reimbursement of $1,500 per eagle.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and local tribes are assisting the DNR with this investigation.

More information on this developing story will be published as it becomes available.