We were privileged to host 17 students from Long Creek School this past week. That is more than half of the student population!

Red-tailed Hawk 25-519 was admitted with a leg fracture from a gunshot injury. Initially the hawk seemed very alert, but it died during the night. We suspect Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Test results should arrive next week.

Common Raven 25-520 was also admitted. Ravens are a high risk species for avian influenza. The bird was found in an area where water fowl, primary carriers of influenza, congregate and was very depressed. It had no obvious injuries. Influenza seemed to be the most likely cause for the bird’s condition. To minimize the risk to our resident birds, it was euthanized. Test results for the raven should arrive next week as well.

 The old double-wide that housed the clinic is now in two pieces. I fully expect it to be gone by next week’s newsletter!