Police have not drawn a connection between the vandalism and the protest, which drew about two dozen people, but the events have been linked in media reports. Nextera was given permission to remove the nest by the province’s Ministry of Natural Resources, after it was determined it had not yet been used for rearing chicks.
In a letter to the community, Nextera says the nest is now being safely stored. "The Summerhaven team will be consulting with the local First Nations, governmental authorities and other stakeholders to arrive at the best relocation site for the nest," the company said.
"We understand some may be concerned about the removal of the nest and we share that concern. However, after discussions with the experts, we believe that the action taken was absolutely in the best interest of the eagles, and would significantly reduce the risk of any harm coming to them."
Nextera was unable to comment.