Hawks are majestic creatures that grace our skies with dignified sovereignty. They are strong, agile, and are high on the food chain, thriving in almost every habitat on the earth. But, like all wild animals, hawks are not immune from injury. Whether it be a collision with a window, car strikes, entanglement in barb-wired fences, or even an attack by another animal, hawks can, unfortunately, be seriously injured.
It’s tough to see a hawk in pain, with their incredible wings clipped, eyes showing fear, and usually assertive demeanor struck down. However, handling an injured hawk is no simple task. It requires knowledge, experience, and extreme caution. Approaching or handling injured hawks without proper training can lead to further injuries for both the bird and the rescuer.
A hawk’s injuries can range from superficial to critical. Hawks can suffer from fractures, internal injuries, head trauma, infections, poisoning, and other ailments. They may be incapable of flying, walking, or feeding themselves. Or a hawk can be paralyzed or seemingly unresponsive due to shock or injury. It is important to note that even when severely injured, hawks are still incredibly powerful and can cause harm if handled improperly.
What to Do if You Find an Injured Hawk
If you come across an injured hawk, your first instinct may be to help it immediately – but restraint is key. You must remember that these birds are wild animals. They possess capable and dangerous talons, sharp beaks, and sheer might that may be unleashed in fear or pain. On the other hand, you must act as quickly as possible, given that fast intervention can make the difference between life and death for the injured bird.
Maintain a safe distance and observe the bird. Note any visible injuries and signs of distress, weakness, or disorientation. If possible, contain the bird in a way that ensures safety for both you and the animal, ideally using a blanket or coat to gently direct the bird into a secure, ventilated box.
Never attempt to feed or provide water to the hawk. Due to potential internal injuries, food or water may do more harm than help. Never attempt to fix visible injuries, as this can often worsen the condition. These measures should be reserved for licensed veterinarians or wildlife rehabilitators.
Instead, the best course of action is to immediately contact an animal rescue service in your area. They are equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools required to treat wild hawks and other animals. With time-sensitive injuries, it is paramount that the bird gets to a professional as quickly as possible.
How Animal Rescue Services Help
An animal rescue service provides professional veterinary assistance, often working with specialized avian veterinarians knowledgeable about wild bird healthcare. They can correctly diagnose injuries and administer appropriate treatments, medications, and rehabilitative care for the injured hawk.
Rescue centers also have necessary facilities to house and care for these creatures during their recovery period. Once the hawk has recuperated, they make sure to release it back into the wild – a crucial part of wildlife rehabilitation.
In conclusion, while the immediate instinct to help an injured hawk is praiseworthy, improper handling can lead to undesirable outcomes. Proper training is necessary, but in absence of that, relying on the expertise of an animal rescue service is the safest bet for both human and hawk.