December 7, 2018 at 5:28 p.m.
Northwoods Wildlife Center successfully releases another bald eagle
Northwoods Wildlife Center successfully releases another bald eagle
Especially with eagles and loons, the most common issue is lead poisoning, so a lead toxicity test is done first to determine if that could be the source of the bird's problems.
"Thankfully, this bald eagle had zero lead in her system," Walsh said. "We could now focus on other reasons for her condition."
She said the eagle was emaciated and lacked muscle mass. It was also very weak, especially on her left side. Her talons and feathers were in bad shape, showing that she had been grounded for some time, but X-rays showed no broken bones.
Walsh set up a treatment plan for the bird and within the first week, the eagle was started on fluid therapy and a palatable diet. She was unable to eat much on her own. She was also unable to stand, Walsh said, and spent most of her time relaxing in what Walsh called a "doughnut," which is a rounded towel.
The second week in the rehabilitation center saw the eagle standing, although she was a bit wobbly, showing the staff she had a lot of fight in her. She was unable to perch for approximately a month after coming to NWC, but eventually the staff was able to introduce her to low, wide perches so she could practice being an eagle once again.
As the eagle gained weight and energy, Walsh said it was time to let her out into the flight conditioning aviary. Flying in this enclosed area would help the eagle regain her muscle mass.
"Almost immediately she took to the skies and was able to sustain her flight and land perfectly on higher perches," Walsh said.
From there the eagle spent nearly a month and a half outside learning to be an eagle again. Walsh wanted to make sure she had fully recovered and gained her strength back. Walsh could only guess at what grounded the poor eagle, but was very happy it made its way to NWC, where it could be rehabilitated and released back into the wild of the Northwoods.
Beckie Gaskill may be reached via email at [email protected].
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