Critical Bald Eagle

Bald Eagle

This Bald Eagle was found obtunded, laying down in a campsite of a Provincial Park. She was easily captured and brought in for treatment. She was laying down, eyes closed, respirations laboured. I started her on fluid therapy and an antibiotic for possible respiratory infection. We were really unsure of her prognosis, and I expected her to pass away overnight. Amazingly, she started showing signs of responding to this treatment plan, though she was unable to keep any food down and was regurgitating food. We held off on offering food and continued with fluid therapy to keep her hydrated. Initial diagnostic test results were negative for the avian flu and lead poisoning, other bloodwork was unremarkable. Radiographs showed a large opaque area of her ventriculus (likely rotting fish in her gizzard) so we began administering fluids through an oral tube to flush out her GI tract. She was also started on additional GI medications to prevent infection and help move her stomach contents along. The eagle continued to show improvement and nutrition was gradually introduced and over the next several days. She was keeping the food down and passing normal mutes. She continued to improve in care, no longer requiring medical treatment. She graduated to an outdoor enclosure where she continued to make progress. She was eventually transferred to The Owl Foundation for further care in their large flight enclosure. There, she continued to gain strength and was "given the green light" - she was ready for release. She was transferred back to us and that same day we brought her back to the Park where she was released back home!

Eagle found laying in campsite

Day 2 of treatment, still unwell, showing slight improvement

Released!

Bald Eagle improved significantly to treatment