Storm Damage and the Great Escape at Dollywood
It has been a tense few weeks for the team at Dollywood and the American Eagle Foundation. Following a severe spring storm on April 19, 2026, a large tree was uprooted near the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The falling tree compromised the netting and structure of the aviary, which serves as the largest gathering of non-releasable bald eagles in the United States.
During the emergency effort to relocate the resident birds to the American Eagle Foundation’s headquarters in Kodak, Tennessee, three of the eagles managed to escape. While 26 birds were safely secured, three individuals—Caesar, Rockland, and Wesley—took flight into the surrounding Smoky Mountain region.
A Successful Recovery: Caesar is Home
This week brought a significant breakthrough in the search efforts. The American Eagle Foundation confirmed that Caesar, one of the three missing eagles, was safely recovered on Saturday evening. His identity was confirmed via his unique orange leg band marked with the letters “SE.”
The recovery was made possible thanks to community members who reported sightings in the local area. Search teams were able to use these tips to pin down Caesar’s location and bring him back into professional care. Because these birds are non-releasable—meaning they cannot hunt or survive independently in the wild due to permanent disabilities—his return is a major relief for the conservation team.
The Search for Rockland and Wesley
While Caesar’s return is a cause for celebration, the mission is not over. Two eagles, Rockland and Wesley, remain missing. The American Eagle Foundation is monitoring reports around the clock and has asked the public to keep a watchful eye on the skies.
Rockland can be identified by an orange or black band on his leg, while Wesley is marked with a black band. Experts note that these birds may not be strong fliers and could be found perched in trees near residential areas or waterways within a few miles of the park. If you spot a bald eagle in the Pigeon Forge area, the foundation asks that you:
- Keep your distance: Do not approach, feed, or attempt to capture the bird.
- Document safely: Take a photo or video from a distance to help confirm the identity.
- Report precisely: Contact the American Eagle Foundation with GPS coordinates or a specific location.
Impact on Your Dollywood Visit
For guests planning a trip to Dollywood in the coming days, there are some operational changes to keep in mind. The Wings of America birds-of-prey show remains suspended while the team focuses on the search and recovery efforts. Additionally, the area immediately surrounding Eagle Mountain Sanctuary in the Craftsman’s Valley section of the park is partially closed to allow for repairs to the aviary netting and structure.
The American Eagle Foundation and Dollywood staff are working diligently to ensure the remaining 26 eagles are safe at their temporary housing until the sanctuary can be fully restored. We will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates as more news becomes available regarding Rockland and Wesley.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.