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TINY TERROR BACK IN THE SKY - Matt Zymanek

Just slightly larger than a robin, this feathered terror known as a Sharp-Shinned Hawk is the smallest member of the accipiters.  They are common in Western New York and are often found at birdfeeders.  The majority of accipiters are so intent on hunting their prey that they have a tendency to fly at full speed into windows, buildings, and cars.  Unfortunately, most of them receive paralyzing injuries and must be euthanized.  Coupled with complicated injures and high strung personalities, these birds are extremely difficult in captivity.

So when we received a sharp-shinned hawk that was hit by a car, we knew it would require special attention.  The bird was found roadside with a broken wing in Orchard Park.  We stabilized the wing, re-hydrated the patient, and brought him to the veterinarian for X-rays.  To our surprise, the X-ray revealed that this poor bird had also suffered a previous trauma.  Multiple pellets from a shotgun were found inside his body.  Dr. Matthew Dunaif examined the hawk and determined that it was best to leave the pellets where they were, rather than risk further complication.  Back at Hawk Creek, we applied a figure eight bandage for his wing, put on a tailguard to protect his tail, and placed him in a specialized hospital cage.

After five long weeks of housing this tiny terror, we finally moved him into a large flight cage.  However, he immediately started to fly into the walls, potentially hurting himself.  We made the decision to release him early because of the risk of reinjury.  His flight towards freedom proved us correct, as he gracefully maneuvered through the trees of the forest.