Cutest Bird of the Week
While there were 8 raptors admitted this past week, the cutest little guy had to be the Pied-billed Grebe. It crash-landed on icy snow, thinking it was water. Fortunately there were no injuries and the tiny grebe was released. Thank you to Aaron Skirvin for help in identifying the species.
First Bald Eagle of the Year
An immature Bald Eagle was found along Mill Creek near Walla Walla. Its left wingtip was literally frozen solid. The bird was captured and taken to Animal Clinic East where they spent two hours defrosting the eagle’s wing. In addition, the young eagle has a blood lead level of 27.6 micrograms/deciliter, considered to be a toxic level in raptors. Chelation to remove the lead has been started and we are doing everything we can to stimulate circulation in the damaged wing.
If you compare the two radiographs below, you can see increased inflammation in the left wing midway between the elbow and wrist to the wingtip. The right wing is normal.
Sooty Screech Owl
A Western Screech Owl tried to find a protected spot to spend the day, and ended up in a fireplace. After a few days at BMW to remove the soot and wait for temperatures to get above freezing, the owl was released.
Remember, your chimney should have a spark arrestor to keep sparks from escaping and cavity nesting birds from entering!
Annual Membership Meeting: Saturday, 1 pm
Join BMW’s Board of Directors for the Annual Membership meeting, this Saturday, January 28, 1 pm at the First Christian Church, 215 N Main Street, Pendleton. Enter by the Bailey Street door. We will have a quick review of 2016 and a peek at what’s in store for 2017. Refreshments will be served.
