Car Strikes A 20-Year-Old Red-Tailed Hawk

The following story about a red-tailed hawk was shared with us by Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge of New Jersey.

In February of 2021, Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge admitted a red-tailed hawk that was struck by a car in Ocean County, New Jersey. Examination on intake showed an ulnar fracture as well as a wound in the area of the fracture. Our veterinarian performed radiographs, which showed that the ulnar fracture had already begun to heal on its own and was approximately a week old. The wound was caused by a feather shaft that had broken during impact and punctured through the skin. After thorough cleaning, the wound was found to be quite large.

Our rehabilitators also found that the hawk was banded. Upon entering the band information, we discovered that this bird was 20 years old and banded in Cape May, New Jersey! We were excited to see how well this bird was doing after a long life. In addition, the bird was relatively stable despite the injuries. This red-tailed hawk is still in our care, as we are working to heal that fracture and also treat a significant wound on it.

Like all patients, this red-tailed hawk was started on fluid therapy on arrival and medication to treat pain and infection. Following fluid therapy, the hawk was started on EmerAid IC Carnivore for a few days to get the digestive system moving again. Currently, the hawk is doing well behaviorally and medically, and we anticipate a release in a few months!