The Week in Review
The Horned Lark is looking very grown up, doubling its weight to 29 grams in one week and eating on its own.
Three Red-tailed Hawks were admitted. The first had touched electrical wires and was electrocuted. The damage throughout his body was extensive and not repairable. The second hawk had an abscess on one foot, likely either from a fight with another hawk or from a bite wound from intended prey. The infection had spread to the bones of the foot and the damage was not reversible. The third hawk had multiple fractures in the radius and ulna of its left wing. The damage was not repairable.
The First Baby Owls of Baby Season
The high winds this past week resulted in two young Great Horned Owls ending up on the ground. Both sustained injuries so could not be returned to their respective nests. Nestling owl 22-97 has a head injury. He’s not quite sure which way is up. He is receiving anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy to treat his condition.
Owl 22-098 is a little older. His collision with the ground resulted in fractures of the right coracoid and scapula. His right wing has been immobilized with a bandage to stabilize the fractures. If his healthy appetite is any indication, he will recover from his injuries.
Another Gunshot Bird
It seems like every week we see another gunshot bird. This week was no exception. An immature Bald Eagle was found near Yakima. It has an ulna fracture caused by a projectile which can be seen in the radiograph below.
The eagle’s wing has been immobilized. The hope is that the intact radius will act as a splint for the broken bone. The eagle is not a very happy patient!
Volunteer Meeting Date Change to April 30
Due to a scheduling conflict at McNary Wildlife Refuge, the Volunteer Meeting date has been changed to April 30. The time is still noon. Lunch, with cookies!, will be provided. I hope to see you there!
