We enjoyed some gorgeous winter days this past week. A nice change from the typical gray of winter. There were three admissions to the clinic: two Great Horned Owls and a Merlin. 

Merlin 25-005 dislocated its right shoulder and elbow. The damage was severe and could not be repaired.

Great Horned Owl 25-006 had internal injuries from blunt trauma on her left side, likely from being struck by a vehicle. We tried to stabilize her condition, but she died of her injuries soon after admission.  

Great Horned Owl 25-004 was found tangled in a barbed-wire fence. The finder, a captain in a fire department and knowledgeable about first aid, was great help as we cleaned the owl’s wounds and closed the laceration. The owl is eating well and has regained its feisty disposition. 

We had great news this week from the Bird Banding Lab. Mark Vogt had reported the band number of a Bald Eagle he photographed in Idaho. The Lab sent BMW information regarding the eagle we had banded in 2022 and released at McKay National Wildlife Refuge. The eagle had been shot in April, 2022 and brought to BMW for care. Generally we receive banding reports after a bird has died and someone reports it to the Banding Lab. It is wonderful to know that a bird BMW cared for is alive and well after 2 1/2 years after being released. Below are two photos Mark shared of the eagle. Thank you Mark!!