Challenges In A Bird’s Life
This past week the weather, cars, a cat and barbed-wire were some of the challenges that brought birds to the rehab center. For the most part, the birds didn’t fare well. A Barn Owl hit by a semi on the freeway and a Northern Saw-whet Owl mauled by a cat both died. Two Great Horned Owls, a Red-tailed Hawk and a Yellow-rumped Warbler all had injuries that could not be repaired.
A second Northern Saw-whet Owl is in an incubator wearing a neck brace fashioned from cast padding and vet wrap. He is thought to have crashed during a wind storm. He is able to stand, but obviously does not feel good. There was no improvement during the first 24 hours. The prognosis for his recovery is poor.
The outlook is better for a Harlan’s Hawk who is thought to have been hit by a car. He has a bruise on his back just above his pelvis, but does not appear to have any broken bones. He is much more alert since arriving on Friday.
A Time To Be Thankful
Bob and I have much to be thankful for. We are especially thankful for the many friends of Blue Mountain Wildlife who support the center financially and for all the volunteers who help in so many ways. We wish you all a happy and safe holiday and the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful meal with family and friends.
