BPRC received a Red-tailed Hawk that flew through the methane flame of an incinerator at a local landfill. Unfortunately it melted all its flight and tail feathers and fell to the ground. After examining the bird and giving it time to recuperate, BPRC imped a full new set of feathers. Imping is the process of taking salvaged feathers from another bird (same species/size), cutting the damaged feathers off and gluing the new feathers in place. This bird was flying soon after the process was complete and passed Mouse School! Please consider making a tax-deductible donation and help raptors in need.
Red-tailed Hawk being examined. A new set of feathers have been imped in place. Exercising with other Red-tailed Hawks in flight cage before release.