PATIENT OF THE WEEK 03/28/25
Great Horned Owl release
This Great Horned Owl’s journey to recovery was nothing short of miraculous. Upon arrival at Tucson Wildlife Center, he was severely dehydrated, emaciated, and battling Plasmodium-induced anemia—better known as bird malaria. This disease is caused by parasites that specifically infect the red blood cells of birds and cannot be transmitted to humans.
The infection had left the owl immunocompromised, also causing soft tissue wounds on his body to heal very slowly. But, with intensive care and a carefully managed recovery plan, he gradually regained his strength and reached the milestone we were all hoping for—release back into the wild!
His treatment included a blood transfusion from a healthy resident donor owl, as avian blood cannot be banked like mammalian blood; aggressive fluid therapy; a specialized medication to destroy the Plasmodium parasites; and carefully managed re-feeding to prevent dangerous electrolyte imbalances. This raptor’s remarkable recovery showcases the exceptional medical care TWC provides wild patients—made possible with your support.
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