With Eagles, I document everything. We have a temporary Federal eagle permit that allows us to rescue and stabilize then deliver them to our eagle vets (experts) at the Tulsa Zoo. During the time we have them I am in constant contact with Dr Backues and/or Dr Killburn. I film or photograph every stage of care and narrate my thoughts and findings, and am sharing those with you so you can join me on this journey toward saving one of our National treasures. This is only my 9th eagle as we have very few where I live, but their population is making a comeback. I waited 15 years to help the first one. So far, all have been severe gunshot with wings partially blown off or apart, or lead poisoned. The ones that have survived were rendered flightless and are in sanctuary. All were beyond repair or more than fatal lead levels and none have been releasable. This is the first one that I felt could be repaired, though his blood loss yesterday is still a concern. I know that my evaluation of the wing could change with Dr Killburns findings today, but I am hopeful. All I want for Christmas is the hope that I will someday soon release an eagle. Anything less is a failure to rehabilitate. Fingers crossed. Yes, it is just as amazing for me to help this bird as you think it is. If an eagle grabs one of us with a taloned foot, someone will need medical care, but I They are huge, powerful birds. They have the personality and anatomy of an oversized red tail hawk, but far more delicate biologically. These birds are the masters of the skies, but the smallest dose of lead will kill them. If an animal is shot with lead, this bird will scavenge the body, digest some of the lead and die. Lead sinkers lost in fish (swallowed the hook, cut the line) is deadly bait for an eagle. We all need to be more careful and keep lead out of the wild, but I am hopeful this bird will be found lead free and any lead from gunshot can be removed successfully. Today I am thankful for the game wardens who urgently transported this guy to me for life saving care and for Dr Killburn who will work to fix his wing on a Holliday, and for Tulsa Zoo who lends their amazing hospital and staff to assist wildlife. It takes a village to do what is right. People most likely caused this majestic bird to suffer, and good people will now right the wrong. I am thankful for the compassion among us that is more common than you think. I will keep you posted on his condition. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!! Annette
Posted on: Thu, 27 Nov 2014 13:24:16 +0000
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