20170908-Red-tailed Hawk - 1

Thanks to Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control for picking up this bird! Initial exam:  This immature red-tailed hawk was very thin and had flat flies.  Radiographs did not reveal any fractures.  He is probably what we call young and dumb; he left or was separated from his parents before he could hunt well enough to survive on his own.  Luckily, this bird is not is as bad a shape as many "young and dumb" and has a fair prognosis for recovery. 09/15/2017 He is eating very well and gaining weight.  Today he was placed in a flight pen with other red-tails. 09/29/2017 He has begun creance flying today to build up his muscles.  Raptors are true athletes and need to be in good physical shape to fly and catch their prey. 11/11/2017 He remains very feisty!  This bird is waiting to be live fed.  He is a strong flier.  After he can pass live prey school he will be ready for release.