The Maine Warden Service is trying to determine who shot to death a bald eagle in Hermon earlier this week.

The eagle, which is protected by both federal and state laws, was found near Hermon Pond near Souadabscook Stream, according to Cpl. John MacDonald.

The warden service is trying to determine who shot the bird and why and is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

It is against state law to hunt species that were previously on the state’s list of threatened or endangered species, which includes the eagle. Violating that law is a Class D misdemeanor crime punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail.

MacDonald said the shooting of a bald eagle in the state is rare, happening perhaps once a year.

The warden service asked that anyone with information contact authorities on the Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-ALERT US (1-800-253-7887) or at http://www.maineogt.org.

David Hench can be contacted at 791-6327 or at: dhench@pressherald.com