Peregrine Falcon #15-2167

For the past month, the staff has been performing physical therapy on the falcon’s wing every three days in an effort to prevent the joint, muscles, or patagium from permanently contracting. Prior to admission, the falcon had an injury to his patagium, and unfortunately, repeat radiographs of the left wing on November 17 showed that the patagium has not improved despite physical therapy sessions. The veterinary staff made the decision to stop physical therapy since it is not improving the bird’s situation.

Despite careful perch rotation, the sedentary Peregrine Falcon has also developed low-grade pododermatitis (bumblefoot) on both feet. Peregrine Falcons are at risk for bumblefoot in captivity and require careful management to prevent and resolve the issue. To manage the bumblefoot, the staff began daily laser therapy on the falcon’s feet and applied bandages to the bird’s feet. A wound on the falcon’s right ankle that initially appeared superficial has also been difficult to manage, causing Dr. Helen concern about the falcon’s prognosis.

The surgical sites on the left and right wing remain static; repeat radiographs will be taken on November 30 to determine if it’s appropriate to the remove the ESF in the left wing. The staff will continue to manage the falcon’s injuries and will determine the bird’s status at the end of the month.