Challenger (eagle)

He is the first bald eagle in history trained to free fly over stadium events, including the World Series and United States presidential inaugurations.

Two unsuccessful release attempts (including one that almost cost him his life) resulted in Challenger being deemed non-releasable, and he was eventually handed over to the Federal authorities.

Authorities have since given Challenger to the American Eagle Foundation for care and educational programs.

Challenger is named in honor of the space shuttle crew, who were killed when it disintegrated shortly after launch.

He has raised a great level of public awareness for the habitat destruction of the bald eagle.