Gila Monster release
When an injured wild animal is admitted to Tucson Wildlife Center, our wildlife care team performs a comprehensive exam and prioritizes the patient’s known injuries for treatment. However, as the animal begins to stabilize, additional wounds, infections, or complications—that were not immediately evident—can emerge. Thorough assessments and ongoing care are essential to ensure each patient receives complete treatment during their rehabilitation journey.
This Gila monster was brought to TWC after being hit by a car. An exam showed a left rib fracture and moderate swelling in the jaw. A few days later, the lizard’s left eye was swollen and a thick, mucous-like discharge developed. TWC’s staff veterinarian diagnosed the Gila monster with a trauma-induced corneal ulcer and began treating the eye with antibiotic drops. When the drops failed to heal the ulcer, the decision was made to enucleate (remove) the eye, to prevent further complications such as chronic infection and severe pain.
We are happy to report the surgery was successful and, after a period of recovery, the Gila monster was successfully released back into the wild. While these lizards rely on their vision to some extent, Gila monsters also use their keen sense of smell and taste to locate food and navigate their environment. With a well-developed Jacobson’s organ that allows them to detect chemical cues in their surroundings, losing one eye should not significantly impair our patient’s ability to survive in the wild. *** Please note, the Gila monster in the photo with the hand laying beside it was under sedation prior to surgery … allowing this photo to safely be taken as a reference of size. Gila monsters are venomous lizards and the largest lizards native to the United States.
*** Please note, the Gila monster in the photo with the hand laying beside it was under sedation prior to surgery … allowing this photo to safely be taken as a reference of size. Gila monsters are venomous lizards and the largest lizards native to the United States.
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