On social media, many viewers were stunned after a viral video captured a majestic moment of a bald eagle showing off its wings, taking a break, and going commercial.
Clark, a 19-year-old bald eagle from the World Bird Sanctuary, recently made an unexpected appearance at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The eagle, who typically soars through the skies, decided to take a break and fly commercial, surprising TSA agents and passengers alike.
Clark the bald eagle surprises TSA agents at airport security
On Monday, Clark and his handlers went through security at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.
Additionally, The TSA agents were prepared for the eagle’s arrival, as his handlers had notified them in advance. As Clark moved through the checkpoint, he even showed off his wings for the TSA team.
TSA’s reaction to Clark’s appearance
On social media, The TSA’s official Twitter account shared their amusement.
In the post, they said that their officers are used to seeing eagles on uniforms, but not in person.
“Our special guest was Clark the Eagle, who decided to give his wings a break and fly commercial,” they wrote.
The tweet also mentioned Clark’s ability to spread his wings during screening.
A bald eagle with a unique story
Clark’s journey to the airport is even more special because of his unique background.
Previously, Clark was born with scale deformities on his feet, preventing him from being released into the wild.
Due to these disabilities, Clark joined the World Bird Sanctuary’s Eagle Flight Team and now serves as an ambassador for the organization.
A viral Clark’s popularity at the airport
Clark’s appearance quickly went viral after a video of the incident was shared online. In the clip, a passenger can be heard celebrating Clark’s presence with a playful rendition of the song from Team America: World Police, shouting “America, heck yeah.”
While, the video gained thousands of views, with many amazed by the bald eagle’s airport adventure.
In the comment section, many viewers also expressed their shock at Clark’s majesty.
One person said: Bald eagles can barely walk on flat ground because their talons are so long.
A second wrote: WOW !….maybe we can make this eagle an official sky Marshal !
While a third commented: What a magnificent bird.
Another added: Clark, you’re gorgeous.
TSA Southeast spokesman shares previous experiences with animal passengers
Mark Howell, a spokesperson for TSA Southeast, noted that Clark wasn’t the first non-human passenger to pass through airport security. He recalled seeing baby cougars, penguins, and even a “service chicken” with dyed feathers.
Clark’s handler, Daniel Cone, explained that traveling with the eagle is second nature to him. “I’ve traveled with this eagle so many times, I don’t even think twice about it anymore,” he said. Cone added that Clark enjoys the attention, calling him a “ham” who “eats it up.”
The bald eagle’s journey captured the attention of passengers and showcased the bond between Clark and his handler.
It also highlighted the extraordinary lives of animals who serve as ambassadors for wildlife conservation.
