This month we have treated one park bird and seen and treated thirteen wild birds.  This is quite a small number which may be due to the reasonable weather during the month and a plentiful supply of food. Avon, a Barn Owl (pictured left), known by many children and adult visitors, has been with us for most of the month with an ear infection causing her to hold her head to one side. She is currently receiving medication.

The thirteen wild birds to receive treatment were:

• Three Kestrels, all came in from the local area. One had a serious mouth/throat infection, another had a left wing fracture and was suffering from a serious fly infestation. Both birds had to be euthanased. The other one was very thin, and suffering from ticks and a few flies. It was cleaned up and treated and then given plenty of food. It recovered well and was released after being with us for a couple of weeks.
• We saw one Red Kite bought in from the Thames Valley suffering from possible poisoning. This can happen when a bird picks up food which has been deliberately killed using poison such as rats. The bird died the day it came into us.
• We treated three Tawny Owls, all local. One was suffering from concussion following a vehicle accident, and the other had a wing injury and fly infestation. Both birds had to be euthanased. The third owl was also suffering from a bad fly infestation and died on the day of its arrival.
• One Little Owl was bought in, again local, having been caught by a cat and then rescued. It had a wound to its neck and did not survive its injuries.
• A Sparrow Hawk from near Reading with a dislocated shoulder was treated and recovered well.  It was released after being with us for a week.
• Three Buzzards have come through the front door of the hospital.  Two had serious fractures and were euthanased by our vet. One came up from Somerset.  The other one was bought in by an RSPCA officer and was suffering from concussion probably following a vehicle accident.  It is receiving treatment.Also receiving treatment is a local Barn Owl with a dislocated shoulder.