Giant Sea Eagle Alaska back in Bad Sachsa after dramatic escape!

Giant Sea Eagle Alaska back in Bad Sachsa after dramatic escape!

The giant sea eagle “Alaska” is back at the Harzfalkenhof in Bad Sachsa, after an exciting escape that caused great excitement in the region. The magnificent bird had been missing since October 19, 2025, when it escaped from the falconry after a failed escape attempt. Had he already flown far? According to falconer Rochus Brotzer, the eagle could have traveled several hundred kilometers per day, especially during storms. He was finally found again at midday on Wednesday, October 22nd and - it looks like - returned on his own wings.

The search for “Alaska” began three days earlier, when he was last seen in Scharzfeld. On Wednesday, the eagle was spotted in the morning near Herzberg am Harz before landing on a mini golf course and then soaring onto Brotzer's hand. “Alaska” had a special advantage: the falconer was the only one who could catch him because the eagle has a special bond with him. He was offered to Brotzer's team when they were looking for him near Bad Lauterberg.

Escape and return

The escape from “Alaska” was by no means planned. A broken bolt on his seat meant he was able to free himself. The feathered giant, which grew up in captivity and therefore did not learn to hunt, could face difficulties in the wild. However, it is able to survive for around six weeks without food, making it a survivable but vulnerable bird.

The Harzfalkenhof had asked for reports during his absence. The team was therefore pleased with the large number of clues and thanked the helpers who contributed to the rediscovery of “Alaska”. Despite his return, concern for the eagle's well-being remains, as his time in the wild shows concretely the challenges a bird raised in captivity has to overcome.

Characteristics and identification

For anyone who wants to do their own search: “Alaska” is easy to identify. With an impressive wingspan of 2.80 meters and its striking appearance - a large yellow beak, black and white striped wings and white tail feathers - it is a truly impressive sight. The Harzfalkenhof asks that you take photos of sightings in order to avoid false reports and offers support on 0151-21 29 08 80.

This story not only shows how worthy of protecting our wildlife, but also how much people care about the animals' well-being. Whether in the Harz Mountains or elsewhere, you just have to have a good knack to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.

For more information about “Alaska” and its exciting return, please read the reports from NDR, t online and HNA.