Bald Eagle, #11-2393 - September 29, 2011 Update

The superficial injuries on Bald Eagle #11-2393’s carpi have scabbed and appear to be healing cleanly; however, the Center’s veterinary staff have examined the radiographs taken of the Bald Eagle more closely and think that there may be more significant damage to the eagle’s carpi than they initially suspected. To see if this has any effect on the eagle’s ability to fly, Dr. Adam Naylor recommended that #11-2393 be moved to an outdoor enclosure in order to allow the Center’s veterinary and rehabilitation staff the opportunity to observe it move about freely. The eagle was relocated yesterday afternoon to one of the Center’s smaller flight pens and will remain there under close observation until further notice.

The Wildlife Center has also received information back on Bald Eagle #11-2393’s band. This particular eagle was treated in late December of 2010 by the Eastern Shore Animal Hospital for soft tissue injuries on its carpi and scapula. After it received initial treatment, it was cared for by a permitted rehabilitator until it was banded and released in early January of this year by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. This is the first time it has been in recorded contact with humans since its release.