Welcome back to #WildlifeWednesday! Today's post comes with some advice for all of our community members who have bird feeders. This American Goldfinch was affected by Finch Eye Syndrome, a contagious disease primarily affecting songbirds. Though the goldfinch was able to recover and be released, this illness is continuously transmitted through bird feeders. We kindly ask that you take the following steps to help keep native wild birds safe as the weather warms and the feathered population grows: -Bird feeders should be cleaned once a week and then disinfected with a solution of one part household bleach to ten parts water. Rinse thoroughly after disinfecting and allow the feeder to air dry before replacing and refilling with seed. -Provide a feeder that is large enough for the number of birds that come to it or provide multiple feeders. Overcrowding at the feeder can increase the spread of disease. -Avoid using feeders with rough surfaces, cracks, or crevices that are difficult to clean and sanitize. Tube-style feeders should also be avoided because secretions from the birds’ nares (nostrils) or eyes could be deposited on the tube when feeding. The next bird that feeds and touches the feeder could become infected through this contact. -Clean under the feeder or change the location of the feeder at regular intervals to reduce the buildup of disease-harboring debris under the feeder. You can support local wildlife right in your backyard! Thank you for doing your part to ensure a clean and safe feeding environment for our winged neighbors. (fb)

We had the privilege of caring for this beautiful Barn Owl who was brought to us by a concerned citizen who noticed the bird could not fly. Unfortunately, with head trauma, a puncture wound, and the beginning of wing necrosis (the dying of healthy tissue), the owl's injuries were too great to overcome. We're grateful for our diligent clinic staff who work hard to give every single patient the best possible chance for release as well as comfort throughout the treatment process. We also extend our gratitude to the individual who called our attention to this bird as well as the amazing volunteers who donate so much of their time to helping patients thrive every day. The reality of wildlife rehabilitation is that not every patient is able to survive the extent of their injuries. These losses are never easy, but they remind us of the fragile nature of life and the critical importance of our work. Every bird we care for leaves a lasting impact, and we honor their memory by continuing our mission to protect, heal, and conserve wildlife. (fb)