This little Eastern Screech Owl is finally starting to feel better, despite losing vision in their right eye!
This patient was found on the side of a road, likely hit by a vehicle.
9
29
486
Replies
On intake, the right side of the head showed severe bruising, blood in the ear canal, & a fractured scleral ossicle (bone around the eyeball) which had caused a puncture into the right eye. Given the trauma to the brain, this patient was very weak & minimally responsive.
1
2
41
After a few days of pain medications, antibiotics, & supportive care, this patient is already improving & has a good prognosis for release!
Although this owl will never regain use of the affected eye, it can still live a successful life in the wild!
1
1
57
Owls are the only raptors that can be released with one functional eye. Unlike diurnal raptors, owls rely mainly on hearing to pinpoint their prey. They have asymmetrical ears that allow them to triangulate & hunt down even concealed prey with shocking accuracy. (📸
@_BTO
)
1
6
60
We are still assessing whether this eye will need to be removed due to chronic issues or if it will stabilize sufficiently for release. It is always better to leave non-visual eyes in the socket for symmetry & balance purposes when possible.
1
2
45
Make sure to use headlights, drive the speed limit, and look out for any wildlife that may be hunting along or crossing the roads.
0
4
40
@scarlet21
We will have to test their visual & hearing abilities once healthy enough to go outside
1
0
5
@ADHahn
For owls with eye & suspected ear or head trauma, we always live test them before release to make sure they’re hearing is well enough to catch live prey! We’ll also be assessing their ability to land on perches & avoid obstacles in their enclosure once moved outside!
0
0
12
