Bald Eagle #17-1454 update

On Sunday, June 18, Center staff were startled to find that Bald Eagle #17-1454 had fractured its right humerus; Dr. Ernesto is unsure how this occurred since the eagle is housed in an airline crate and not able to fly or flap. Blood was drawn to send to an outside laboratory for analysis; the wing was wrapped carefully and the bird started on a course of pain medication.

On June 21, Dr. Peach took the eagle to surgery to attempt to pin the fractured wing. She was able to drive the pin through the length of the bone much more easily than expected; unfortunately, the pin and external fixator system did not stay in place, and she had to discontinue the procedure. Drs. Peach and Ernesto will attempt surgery again on June 22.

Radiographs do not indicate obvious issues with bone density, but the veterinary team suspects that the young bird may have an underlying metabolic issue. Additional test results may reveal more information.