A miracle golden eagle that the National Aviary of Pittsburgh nursed back to health from near-death was released to the wild this morning.

The bird flew off on strong wings from New Creek Mountain near Scherr, W.Va.

The golden eagle has been fitted with a tracking device. It is expected to join other migrating golden eagles on their way to Canada.

Erin Estell, manager of animal programs at the National Aviary, was part of the team that provided round-the-clock care to the bird.

“I feel great, relieved,” she said after the bird’s release. “Lots of stress and anxiety flew away with that bird. It’s good to see him fly so strong.”

The bird’s left leg had been caught on the mountain in a trap meant for coyotes. The bird struggled to free itself for nearly a week. When it was found Jan. 5, it was dying. The trap’s metal jaws wore through its skin and muscle, exposing bone the trap had crushed. An infection in the wound had spread to its blood. It was dehydrated, malnourished, anemic and in liver failure.

The eagle came to the National Aviary, where it underwent surgery. Staffers changed its wound dressings every other day. They force-fed it mice laced with medications; at one point, it received a dozen antibiotics and vitamins.

Golden eagles, though not endangered, are protected under federal law.

Within the next week, the bird’s path will be shown on the aviary’s web site within the next week.