Bad Week for an Eagle, Good Week for a Momma Owl and Her Eggs

Bald Eagle 23-011

We lost the second Bald Eagle to ingested lead toxicity this year. The eagle was admitted Wednesday and died Thursday afternoon. The rapid screening test for avian influenza was negative, but his blood lead level was high, meaning it was above the level our LeadCare machine could read. We started chelation therapy immediately, but the eagle died 30 hours after he was admitted. This is why we encourage Lead Free Hunting and Fishing!

Momma Barn Owl and Eggs!!!

She wasn’t the greatest housekeeper, but this Barn Owl picked a very protected place to nest, until the owner wanted to do some remodeling. 

Fortunately he was willing to wait for volunteers Kenny and Janie to drive to Outlook, WA and collect momma and her eggs. First they captured mom, then Janie collected the eggs.

Now momma owl and her eggs are safely in a nest box at BMW’s Tri-Cities Center. Michele candled the eggs and they all appear to be fertile. Good job everyone!