On March 9, an adult female Bald Eagle was found on the ground in Gloucester County. The bird was rescued and taken to the Yorktown Animal Emergency Center. Two days later, on March 11, this bird was transferred to the Wildlife Center.
Upon arrival, Dr. Karra anesthetized the eagle for a physical examination. The eagle had wounds on her feet, legs, and torso. Some of these wounds were puncture wounds; Dr. Karra suspected that they were inflicted by another eagle or raptor. Other wounds were more consistent with road rash. Blood was drawn for analysis, and Dr. Karra found that this bird was also suffering from lead toxicosis.
All of the bird’s wounds were cleaned, treated, and bandaged. Additionally, the eagle was given an antibiotic, and began her lead toxicosis treatment. The eagle was placed in the Center’s Holding room, so that his condition could be closely monitored by veterinary staff.
On the March 18, the pectoral puncture wounds were debrided [cleaned of old, dead tissue] and the largest wound was sutured. Prior to the procedure, the bird was noted to be bright, alert, responsive, and feisty, all good signs when treating a raptor with these types of injuries. She is also still receiving medicine for her lead toxicosis, and will receive this medication twice a day until at least March 22.
