Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: Red-tailed Hawk

This beautiful adult Red-tailed Hawk came to us from Loudoun County after being found entangled in thick nylon netting that was protecting backyard poultry.

The chicken owner was able to cut away the netting surrounding the hawk without removing it from the bird’s body. This is exactly what we recommend as attempting to remove the netting at home, without sedation, often results in severe injury to the bird (and sometimes the human!).

Once in care, we were able to sedate this hawk and gently remove the netting while taking care not to worsen the laceration extending from this bird’s axilla (armpit area) up and over the shoulder blade. Fortunately, the wound was fresh and we were able to flush and surgically close the area shortly after intake.

With a bandage over the sutured area, this hawk is resting comfortably on strong pain medications and antibiotics. They began eating the same day and can now receive all medications in food while we wait for the wound to heal completely.

Thank you to the vigilant finder for both keeping their chickens safe AND for having compassion for this predator who found themselves in a precarious situation.

Warning: Photos of open wounds below

How to prevent this from happening?

If you find a bird (or other wildlife!) entangled in mesh netting, please cut AROUND the animal (do not try to cut the tight, constricting areas yourself), place the entrapped animal in a box, and get them to your closest wildlife rehabilitator. Once removed, these species typically need intensive rehydration and monitoring if not surgery for any lacerations they have or that they may develop as skin tissue dies, so please do not release them immediately after removal.

We recommend not using this type of netting for any reason, but if you must use some sort of garden netting, opt for firmer material (like wire mesh or thicker plastic that does not stretch) or smaller gauge material (like insect netting). When you throw away or store garden netting, make sure it is in a secure bin or sealed bag so that no animals can become entrapped after disposal!

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