Fall is in the air, our first frost could come any day now and we had another week of trauma. Admissions included 1 Dark-eyed Junco, 1 Red-tailed Hawk, 1 Western Screech Owl, 1 Great Horned Owl and 2 Northern Saw-whet Owls. 

The Junco died during the initial exam. It had multiple injuries including a broken leg.

We are waiting for the avian influenza test results for the Red-tailed Hawk. She is very alert, but unable to stand. The Screech Owl had a badly dislocated left shoulder and was euthanized.

The Great Horned Owl had multiple injuries including a hemorrhagic right eye, a dislocated right shoulder and hip damage. Avian influenza is also a possibility. Euthanasia seemed the kindest option. A sample will be sent to the lab on Monday to test for avian influenza.

We are hopeful both Northern Saw-whet Owls will be success stories. Owl 26-441 had a droopy wing, but is looking good now. Owl 26-444 has a radius fracture. We are cautiously optimistic he will recover.

Although a bit chilly outside, the sage brush is looking gorgeous…