Editor’s Note: The young Cooper’s Hawk is part of the CROW CAW (Case A Week) series, which tells the stories of the patients at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel Island, the dangers they face, and how we can help protect all of our wildlife. Read previous cases here.
This juvenile Cooper’s Hawk (Patient #25-2941) arrived at CROW after being found grounded and soaked during a recent heavy rainstorm. Over the next few days of supportive care, the hawk became more lethargic and continued to show more severe neurologic signs. No visible injuries and normal blood results suggested that a toxin exposure could be the underlying cause.
Toxins such as rodenticides (rat poison), lead, pesticides, and other environmental contaminants can travel up the food chain, affecting predators that eat poisoned or contaminated prey.
To help this young raptor recover, our veterinary team began treatment with IVLE (intravenous lipid emulsion)–a therapy designed to bind and flush toxins from the bloodstream. The Cooper’s Hawk responded to the therapy and appears to have made a full recovery. Our staff moved the hawk to our flight enclosure for reconditioning in a few days, then transferred it to one of our Naples partners for further conditioning.
This case is a powerful reminder that the chemicals we use can have unforeseen consequences for wildlife. By opting for safer pest control methods and ensuring proper disposal of toxic substances, we can contribute to the protection of raptors and other species that play a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems…