Bald Eagle #18-0132 update

During daily flight conditioning on May 13, rehabilitation staff noted an open sore-like wound on one of Bald Eagle 18-0132’s right toes; the wound was swollen and bleeding. The eagle was transferred to an indoor holding area, and the next day, Dr. Ernesto surgically debrided and closed the infected wound while the eagle was anesthetized. After disinfecting the area and applying medical honey, a protective bandage was applied.

It’s possible the lesion developed due to prolonged periods of inactivity while perching in-between daily exercise sessions. The eagle will remain indoors throughout the coming week, and veterinary staff will monitor the wound, change the bandages as needed, and administer pain and anti-microbial medication each day.