The week started with the admission of an American White Pelican found near Dayville, OR. At 5.31 kg (11.7 pounds) it weighs more than most eagles. The pelican is a young bird, full grown and should be able to fly. We are not sure how it was injured. It had a large tear in the skin of its left foot. It was quarantined in the new Intake Center and tested for avian influenza.
When the test results were negative, the bird was brought into the main clinic for a more thorough exam and radiographs. We have a special cone for anesthetizing pelicans. It is made from a Tupperware pasta container and a two-cup Tupperware measuring cup taped together. It is the perfect length! It took seven x-rays to get the pelican’s entire body, legs and wings. We found no fractures during the physical exam or radiographs.
The skin tear was partially closed with staples to keep the underlying tissue from drying out while the wound heals.
The Pelican was moved out to the large flight pen until the staples can be removed.
More Barn Swallows
Five more Barn Swallows were admitted this past week, including three nestlings. With luck we are just about at the end of baby season.
Bald Eagle 23-024 Released
Five months after being admitted with acute lead poisoning, the eagle was released…
