Golden eagle Loki returns home to the Trenier family after a week-long adventure in the hills

A golden eagle, which escaped its enclosure in County Antrim, has been safely returned home after an extraordinary week-long adventure. Loki, a four-year-old male eagle, was last seen on 12 December when the roof of his enclosure was ripped off during the fierce Storm Darragh.

Loki’s owner, David Trenier, who runs Hawk Walks Falconry Experiences in Ballyclare with his wife Jo, expressed his overwhelming joy when he and his wife found the bird perched on a hill behind Magheramorne Quarry near Larne, just days after they lost track of him.

The couple, who had been anxiously searching for their beloved eagle since his escape, were moved to tears upon seeing Loki once again. David described the moment of their reunion as nothing short of magical. “We had eyes on him for a few days before approaching him,” Trenier told BBC News NI. “As soon as we went out with the glove on my arm, he flew straight over. It was like he just said to himself, ‘There’s my dad.’”

Loki’s escape had been a source of anxiety for the Trenier family, who had urgently called on local residents to keep an eye out for the wandering eagle. The couple’s plea was met with overwhelming support, with calls, messages, and offers of help flooding in from the community. The eagle’s safe return was made even more significant due to the wild conditions he had faced.

The Trenier family took to Facebook on Friday evening to announce the heartwarming news. “Guess who’s finished his little adventure!” the post read, followed by a heartfelt message of gratitude to all those who had supported them during Loki’s time away. “Jo and I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every single person for their support,” the post continued. “All the calls, messages, and offers of help have been incredible. He is in great health and form, and is resting in his mews with a big dinner.”

This emotional reunion marked the end of a tumultuous week for the Trenier family, who are now focused on ensuring Loki’s safety in the future. The eagle, who has been a part of their lives for years, will continue to be cared for at Hawk Walks Falconry, where he is expected to return to his usual routine.

Loki’s escape and eventual return serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife and the deep bond between trainers and their animals. For now, Loki is safe at home, a little worse for wear but none the worse for the adventure that brought him closer to his owners than ever before.