I've always said that the heartwarming instances of success and release are often punctuated by the heartbreak that occurs when animals you want so badly to survive succumb to their injuries. We have both this week, so come along as we experienced renewal, release, and a realization that nothing is permanent...
The osprey saga continued last week as the bird was examined on his arrival at the facility. He seemed to be doing fairly well but his initial exam produced evidence of a leg that was broken, most likely as a result of his struggles in the mud. The dirt was washed off and he was placed in a warm enclosure for rest and food, leading to an appointment with the X-ray machine on Friday. Unfortunately, sometime Thursday morning, stress took it's toll and he died peacefully before any further treatment could be administered. Our other osprey, however, is doing wonderfully.
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Migratory birds, such as this yellow-rumped warbler, fly distances that are difficult to comprehend on their biannual treks. Traversing strange territories they face innumerable dangers, not the least of which are house-cats which they encounter on the way...
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This striking young (note the eye color) cooper's hawks was brought in with unknown injuries. Since he didn't present any overt trauma, he was observed briefly and is now outside and will probably be released soon.
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Another great blue heron came in late last week. It seems as though as soon as we release several fish eaters, more show up. This guy was extremely thin and unable to stand on his own.
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The Phoenix office of the medical technology firm Medtronic sent a work crew to Liberty last Friday to paint and clean. Almost 16 people spent a full work day painting and graveling around the facility. The place looks a lot better and will present a clean appearance for the new season. Thank you, Medtronic!!
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Chaco flys for the cub scouts.
Even as the place was getting a paint job, a troop of local cub scouts was touring the facility. Under the skillful eye of Anne Peyton, the scouts got to see what Liberty does, what the birds are like, witnessed an eagle feeding, and even got to see Chaco demonstrate her flying skills.
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On September 12, volunteer Wendy Bozzi brought a barn owl that Liberty had rehabilitated to the home of her friend Kathryn Lauterbach. Kathryn had been battling cancer (Wendy is a cancer survivor) and Jan Miller thought it would be fitting to let Kathryn do a release. Though she was too weak to hold the owl, she held her hands on Wendy's as the bird was freed. Wendy's son John (aspiring Liberty volunteer) took the video.
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1 comment:
Although it is dififcult to read, I am glad you are telling us the stories of some birds that do not make it back to the wild. That is the circle of life and it shows what your job at Liberty is truly about. Love the wonderful success stories that you have so many of and congrats on the award! Well deserved!
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