Rehabilitation and Release of a Mallard Duck (Anas platyrhynchos)

We recently released a male Mallard,  Anas platyrhynchos, that was rehabilitated at the Wildlife Hospital of Volunteers for Wildlife.   The patient was rescued by a concerned citizen of Wantagh who observed the duck on his front lawn for an extended period of time.  The gentleman called the Wildlife Advisory Telephone (631) 423-0982 for help with the bird.

 

After an initial physical examination, the Mallard was found to be weak, dehydrated, obtunded (mentally dull) and thin.  Dr. Loudon at the Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island, was consulted to ensure that toxicity was not the cause of our patients symptoms.  Blood tests indicated that the duck was not suffering from lead poisoning and seemed to be overall inconclusive.  He remained at the wildlife hospital for supportive care and medical treatment.  It was noted that he had passed many adult Helminths while in the bath.  Parasites in the digestive tract are common in waterfowl.  This particular duck had a heavy parasite load.   Following the successful treatment of his "worms" the Mallard was released at Twin Lakes Preserve in Wantagh. 



Volunteers for Wildlife would like to thank the staff and Veterinarians at the Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island (VMCLI) for their generous support with this and many other cases.