We received word from the OSU Veterinary Diagnostic Lab that Great Horned Owl 25-006 who died soon after being admitted last week, tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. The owl had multiple bruises that seemed consistent with being struck by a vehicle. We tested the owl for avian influenza because it is a high risk species for the disease. This is a good example of the importance of following protocols. 

There were just three admissions this past week. American Robin 25-008 was quite thin and coated with some type of oil. We are not sure of the type, but it did not smell like automotive oil. After multiple baths with Dawn Dish Soap, the feathers were clean and the bird was placed in an incubator to dry. Unfortunately it died about an hour later.

Western Screech Owl 25-009 was found by students at a school in Baker City unable to fly. Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife transported the small owl to La Grande and it rode the Tribal Bus to Pendleton. We suspect it’s right eye was damaged when it collided with a window at the school. It has gotten quite feisty since its arrival four days ago and is eating two mice each night. We will schedule an appointment at Pendleton Veterinary Clinic this coming week to have the right eye evaluated. 

Barn Owl 25-010 was found in a road near Boardman and we presume it was struck by a vehicle. Fluids and anti-inflammatories seem to have done the trick. After one more day of treatment, we will test fly it in the large flight Pen

The Annual Membership Meeting has been rescheduled for February 8, 2025 at 11:00 am. A Zoom link will be posted on the Blue Mountain Wildlife website home page the week before the meeting and will be included in the February 2, 2025 newsletter. 

And here is a bit of humor to start your week out right, Tricia and her Christmas shirt…