An immature male peregrine falcon was admitted to Wings of Wonder in early October. This young falcon was rescued and transferred by the Manistee DNR after being found laying injured in a building that was being renovated. During the initial exam it was apparent that the falcon had a fracture of the right humerus, which is the bone between the shoulder and the elbow. Surgery was scheuduled with Dr. Eric Peck, Northern Michigan Veterinary Hospital (www.traversanimalhospital.com).A steel pin was inserted into the bone during the
surgery to aid in the alignment and subsequent repair of this fracture. The wing was splinted and the falcon is now recovering at WOW.
Two weeks post surgery the wing was xrayed which revealed a nice callus forming over the fracture area. Hopefully the pin will be removed in another 2 weeks, and the falcon can begin to gently exercise that wing. He is a delightful patient; being very calm and greatly appreciative of his fresh quail dinner each day. Because of the severity of the injury, this youngster has a long road ahead of him to achieve a full recovery. Peregrine falcons are very fast and agile fliers...reaching speeds of over 200 mph as they dive, or stoop, for their prey. Their wings, muscles, tendons and skeletal systems all need to work perfectly in order for them to survive out in the wilds. Time will tell whether this youngster will ever fly free once again.
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