Two bald eagles found entangled in a Lancaster County soybean field were rescued by wildlife professionals and taken to Raven Ridge Wildlife Center for treatment, according to the center.

The center said it received a call from a Pennsylvania Game Warden after someone reported the birds stuck together. Because handling eagles can be dangerous, Raven Ridge’s clinic manager also went to the scene. The birds, a male and a female, were separated and transported for care.

Raven Ridge said both eagles were in poor condition, with bloodied, infected wounds. The center said they were also being treated for lead poisoning. It said the birds may have become entangled during a territorial dispute or courtship. Eagles can lock talons and fall to the ground before they can separate.

The wildlife center said it hoped the eagles could be released back into their original territory after they recover. Returning them there could give them a chance to reclaim the area before other eagles settle in.

The report highlights the specialized work required to help injured raptors: wildlife officers and trained rehabilitators must coordinate because the birds’ talons and size can make rescue hazardous for both the animals and people.

Source reporting: Brady Doran, WHTM/ABC27, republished by AOL; updates from Raven Ridge Wildlife Center.