The injured raptor proved to be an adult female Merlin! Falco columbarius, the Merlin, is a small yet powerful falcon. They spend their summers in the northern most parts of America into Canada and Alaska. This particular bird is most likely migrating through New York to arrive at its winter range in the southern United States or even as far south as Columbia, Peru and Venezuela.
This impressive creature sustained an injury to her left wing rendering her temporarily unable to fly. At the hospital we administered a course of medication to help reduce her pain, and swelling. X-rays performed by Dr. Mehlrose at the Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island revealed no evidence of any fractured bones. Dr. Mehlrose's examination confirmed the damage to her soft tissue was the cause for her distress.
Prior to colliding with a home, this Merlin was doing well. Maintaining a high weight of 199 grams (an average for Merlin's is 190 grams), additionally she was well hydrated and full of energy.
She was released today 12/12/09 by Nancy Stein the same volunteer who rescued her! The satisfaction of releasing an injured and rehabilitated animal is enormous! Nancy reports that the Merlin flew off to a near by tree and seemed to look quite content.
Merlins tend to be found in open spaces and open woods. They capture smaller birds and insects while in flight using an intricate method of turns while in mid-air to bring down their prey. In addition to birds the Merlin will also consume some small mammals, lizards, and snakes. The relative proportions of their diet are about 80% birds, 15% insects and 5% mammals.
When I released her, there were several birders who happened to be there. How wonderful for them to watch a previously injured bird back out flying! Several pictures were taken; I hope they get emailed to VFW.
ReplyDeleteI agree Nancy- what a wonderful experience to see such a beautiful bird released! Thank you for all of your help with her.
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