Editor’s Note: The great blue heron is part of the CROW CAW (Case A Week) series, which tells the stories of the patients at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel Island, the dangers they face, and how we can help protect all of our wildlife. Read previous cases here.
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) recently cared for a great blue heron patient (25-4436) for several weeks. The bird was initially admitted due to an inability to fly after the rescuer discovered it had remained in the same retention pool for a few days.
Upon arrival, the heron was extremely lethargic, weak, and unable to support itself on its legs. Given its clinical signs and condition, we suspected that the bird was suffering from red tide or another type of toxicosis.
To treat the heron, we administered intravenous lipid emulsion (IVLE) and fluids to help bind the red tide toxins and flush them out of its system.
After multiple days of treatment, combined with weeks of supportive care and physical therapy, the bird regained enough strength to support its body weight. Since then, it has become strong, demonstrating regular flight and mobility.
Last weekend, the heron was medically cleared for release and was returned on Sunday, Nov. 16, to the J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
Great blue herons are the largest heron species in North America and can be found throughout the United States. With their long necks and slender legs, adult herons stand about four feet tall.
Their plumage is primarily blue-gray, while their faces are white with distinctive black crests. They have long, pointed, yellowish bills that help them catch fish and other aquatic prey. These birds have become iconic symbols of South Florida and the Florida Everglades.
It marks the first great blue heron patient that CROW has released this year.
I love hear the stories from this clinic for wild animals and birds !