Northern Goshawk 18-723 Released
After just over two months at BMW, recuperating from a right coracoid (bone in the shoulder) fracture, this male Goshawk was returned to the forest. He wasted no time in flying up to a high branch of a tree, getting his bearings, then flying off through the forest. Goshawks are in the accipiter family. They hunt birds and small mammals. Their smaller cousins, Cooper’s Hawks and Sharp-shinned Hawks primarily hunt birds. Bird feeders that attract birds to your yard, may also attract these predators.
Great Horned Owl 19-022
There were just three raptors admitted this past week, unfortunately, this Great Horned Owl is another gunshot victim. An air rifle pellet entered the right side of his pelvis and lodged over his left hip. He has limited use of his left leg and no use of his left foot. We are hoping that with time and supportive care, the use of the foot and leg will return to normal.
The owl was found in a residential neighborhood of Kennewick. Please, if you see or hear someone shooting, call the authorities immediately. Write down any details you can determine about the people involved and a description of a the vehicle if they are driving.
Native birds are protected by law and it is illegal to discharge a firearm within city limits. The only way there will be consequences for people who shoot protected birds is if witnesses come forward.
Eagle Updates
Bald Eagle 19-008 has completed his third course of chelation. His vision is still compromised, but he is now able to pick up cut up pieces of food with only minimal help. It is looking like he will not recover sufficiently to be released, but he will be an excellent spokes-eagle for why hunters should with to non-lead ammunition.
Golden Eagle 18-765 continues to improve from a head injury he suffered after being hit by a car. Although he would likely by considered “legally blind” if he were a human, he is showing signs of some vision in both eyes. He is able to eat whole quail on his own. He has trouble holding the food with his feet, but he is very persistent and doesn’t quit until he has finished his entire meal.
