Discover Something New in the Smokies
Nestled among the breathtaking Smoky Mountains, Sevier County, Tennessee, has recently become a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, thanks to the adventures of a few remarkable bald eagles. After a storm last month wreaked havoc at Dollywood and compromised their aviary, three eagles escaped into the wild, igniting the imagination of local residents. Spotting “Rockland,” the eagle adorned with an orange band marked “SK,” has drawn the attention of eager watchers in the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg areas. While Rockland’s escapade unfolds, another eagle, Caesar, has been safely recovered, while the fate of the third, Wesley, remains uncertain. This captivating tale of recovery and resilience invites travelers to experience the charm and beauty of the region while keeping an eye on the skies for these incredible birds. Join us as we delve into this unfolding story and discover more hidden gems in the Smokies below!
Article Summary
In an intriguing recent event in Sevier County, Tennessee, a bald eagle named Rockland has made waves after escaping from Dollywood during a storm that damaged its aviary. The American Eagle Foundation (AEF) has reported multiple sightings of Rockland in the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg areas, and they urge anyone who spots him to refrain from approaching or feeding the eagle, instead calling 865-429-0157 with any information. This comes on the heels of another eagle, Caesar, being safely recovered, while the third eagle, Wesley, still remains at large but has been sighted recently. Following the storm on April 19, which uprooted a tree near Eagle Mountain Sanctuary, Dollywood relocated 26 eagles to the AEF headquarters in Kodak, yet these three quixotic fliers were determined to spread their wings beyond the confines of captivity.
Highlights
Location: The charming towns of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg in Sevier County, Tennessee.
Experience: Expect opportunities for eagle watching and exploring the surrounding natural beauty that the Smokies have to offer.
Why Visit: The unique interplay of local wildlife and breathtaking landscapes makes this region a must-visit destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Plan Your Visit
As the story of Rockland and his fellow eagles unfolds, don’t miss the chance to explore the beauty of the Smokies and uncover more hidden treasures in this enchanting region. For full details on this eagle adventure and more, be sure to check out the original source!
Originally published on the source website.
Content curated and summarized for readers of Mystic Smokies.

