News
On the mend
Eagle struck by car, patched up, moved to rehab facility
A team from the Dunnellon Animal Hospital worked late Tuesday afternoon and into the night stabilizing an American bald eagle after it was hit by a car.
Dunnellon Animal Hospital Dr. Charles H. Witte, DVM, said the raptor suffered a comminuted break to its left humerus after being struck by a vehicle in the Goethe Forest north of Citrus County about 6 p.m. The bone was broken in three places.
A Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission officer brought the bird to the animal hospital.
“First, we assessed the eagle and stabilized the fracture by applying a splint and bandage,” Dr. Witte said. “Staff then treated the bird for shock by applying anti-inflammatory medication, steroids and antibiotics.”
Staff also administered fluids to hydrate the eagle, according to the doctor. A small laceration at the spot of the break was also treated.
“We’ve determined that (the bird) looks good internally,” the doctor added. “There are no rib or apparent spinal fractures. Also, there is no free air or fluid trapped in its body cavity.”
Following a night where staff members checked on the bird frequently, Dr. Witte said: “It did fairly well overnight. The bird is brighter and more alert this morning and is more stable. It is in good shape for transport to the rehab facility.”
The bird was transported Wednesday afternoon to the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey in Maitland, where it will be further evaluated, treated and rehabilitated.
“This fracture is potentially life altering for this bird,” Dr. Witte said. “If that fracture cannot be repaired, then this bird will never fly again.”
Dr. Witte said surgery could be an option, but that will be determined by the Audubon Center.
Staff members at the Dunnellon Animal Hospital have treated two bald eagles within the past year due to vehicle collisions.
“It’s fairly common to have a raptor, like an eagle to be hit by a car,” Dr. Witte said.
Ultimately, the goal will be to rehab the bird to the point it will be released back into the wild.