A juvenile red-tailed hawk survived a 200-mile journey after becoming lodged in a vehicle’s front grille. The bird was struck near the I-5 and 505 interchange near Dunnigan and discovered by a driver at a Chevron gas station in Weed, California. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has since taken the bird to a rehabilitation facility for treatment.
How did the hawk travel 200 miles?
The hawk was struck at the interchange of I-5 and the 505 near Dunnigan, according to the Weed Police Department. The bird remained lodged in the vehicle’s grille for a nearly three-hour trek before the driver reached the town of Weed.
The driver discovered the animal while pulling into a Chevron gas station. The Weed Police Department confirmed on Sunday that dispatch received a call regarding the bird after the driver pulled over for fuel.
What is the bird’s current medical condition?
The juvenile red-tailed hawk is currently undergoing treatment at a wildlife rehabilitation facility. According to reports from ABC10, the bird’s wings remained intact despite the impact and the duration of the trip.
CDFW officials stated the hawk did not suffer any broken bones in its legs or wings. The bird is reportedly experiencing only mild swelling resulting from the impact. Officials told the media that the bird’s prognosis is good.
Red-tailed hawks are one of the most common raptors in North America.
How did the rescue take place?
The rescue involved coordination between local law enforcement and wildlife officials. Weed Police dispatch initially believed the caller had found a sparrow, but the caller clarified the bird was an eagle. Dispatchers advised the driver not to touch the animal and sent officers to the scene, according to The California Post.
Witness Wendy Wertenberger observed the scene at the gas station and described the bird as “calm and trusting” during the commotion. She noted that the bird appeared to be blinking and looking around calmly despite the ordeal.
CDFW personnel worked to dislodge the hawk’s wing from the vehicle’s grille. Once freed, the bird was placed in a box for safe transport to a medical facility.
Wildlife-Vehicle Interaction Trends
The successful recovery of this hawk underscores the importance of two specific factors: rapid citizen reporting and the availability of specialized wildlife responders like the CDFW to handle sensitive animal rescues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What species of bird was rescued?
The bird was identified as a juvenile red-tailed hawk.
Where was the hawk located when it was found?
The hawk was found at a Chevron gas station in Weed, California.
Is the hawk expected to survive?
Yes. CDFW officials have given the bird a good prognosis, noting it has no broken bones.
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