http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com What's happening at Ellicott Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Tue, 07 Sep 2010 10:53:46 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=1.5.1.2 http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=128#comment-196 Mon, 04 Dec 2006 01:16:04 +0000 http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=128#comment-196 I agree with Dix Smith, after checking on Longspurs I identified it as an either female or juvinile Lapland Longspur. They winter in Colorado http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=126#comment-195 Sun, 03 Dec 2006 16:08:12 +0000 http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=126#comment-195 A few poisons are available for birds and they are fairly target specific, rather than the broadcast toxicant that you have errantly stated. The toxicant available for use for pigeons is 4-amino pyridine which is registered in many of the 50 States for a few species (starlings, house sparrows, feral pigeons) because feral pigeons and the other species cause extensive damage to property and are a threat to human health and safety. Pigeons are not federally protected, but are protected in a few states (not in Colorado). The poison available in Colorado is mostly toxic to a limited number of bird species (starlings, blackbirds, pigeons). Because it is assimilated in the body rapidly into nontoxic metabolites, secondary poisoning is basically nonexistent (you suggested that cats and dogs are at risk - cats would be if they ate corn directly which is not likely). When used according label instructions (all poisons and some illegal substances can be used illegally which is the greatest concern), primary hazards to nontarget species can be nullified. Feral pigeons (derived from domestic breeds brought to the US) are prolific in urban environments and if left unchecked will cause damage that property managers do want to minimize. I am a birder and feed birds myself, but as far as nonnative species, I know what problems they cause and do not want them associated with our native fauna. People that cannot resolve problems tend to start lumping all birds together and then start wanting to eradicate all of them. I know that the poisoning of birds such as pigeons can be emotional, but focus on our native species, many of which are disappearing, some to nonnative species introductions. http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=128#comment-194 Sun, 03 Dec 2006 00:32:40 +0000 http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=128#comment-194 Nice photos... my vote is for Lapland Longspur. It appears to have a long "spur" in the bottom photo. A search for online photos turned up quite a few - check out http://www.altech.ab.ca/bushbob/sparrows/longspur.htm for example. Bill and leg color look about right, as does the reddish panel in the wings. I woould not have thought the breast would be so white - perhaps a young bird? http://www.altech.ab.ca/bushbob/sparrows/longspur.htm for example. Bill and leg color look about right, as does the reddish panel in the wings. I woould not have thought the breast would be so white - perhaps a young bird?]]> http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=128#comment-193 Sun, 03 Dec 2006 00:18:28 +0000 http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=128#comment-193 I believe the bird is a 1st winter Lapland Longspur. http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=110#comment-50 Wed, 04 Oct 2006 16:38:45 +0000 http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=110#comment-50 Very educational story on poorwills. Good pictures. It is inspiring to know that there are people like Michelle, Chuck and many others like you working to help God's creatures in need. James and June Hurricane, Utah http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=94#comment-48 Fri, 01 Sep 2006 21:50:19 +0000 http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=94#comment-48 Deep cuts in rabbits. Have you considered using liquid stitch? It is a liquid like super glue and is very good at keeping wounds closed, it also eliminates the need to sew up big lacerations in thin skinned animals such as rabbits. http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=93#comment-47 Sat, 26 Aug 2006 20:11:23 +0000 http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=93#comment-47 WOW! Well put! Being the one who has to restrain the birds that are not mendable as they are euthanized, I can tell you IT IS NEVER EASY! Holding these magnificant birds as they take their last breath, talking to them kindly and soothing, trying to remind myself over and over I am still helping this poor bird. It is not in a ditch starving, or getting eaten by a preditor. I am very greatful to work for the most amazing vet who has done SO MUCH FOR THE BIRDS IN THE LAST 45 YEARS, that donates his time, medications, supplies (bandage material, stainless steel pins to repair breaks) and his huge great amount of knowlege. And it is a great shame that there are not many other vets who are willing to donate anything for the cause. http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=93#comment-46 Wed, 23 Aug 2006 22:11:41 +0000 http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=93#comment-46 What a wonderfully eloquent article on the trials and tribulations of wildlife rehabilitation. Have you considered sharing this article with your local newspaper? I know the Daily Camera has a section on-line where one can submit articles which often get picked up and published especially if accompanied by good photos. Many thanks for taking the obvious time and care to put thoughts into words and sharing. Best wishes, Deirdre Butler, President, Colorado Council for Wildlife Rehabilitation, deirdre@cogico.com deirdre@cogico.com]]> http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=82#comment-44 Sun, 06 Aug 2006 16:51:46 +0000 http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=82#comment-44 It's a pigeon! http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=47#comment-5 Wed, 14 Jun 2006 00:39:24 +0000 http://critterchat.ellicottwildlife.com/?p=47#comment-5 All of us at the Simla Public Library, would like to say thank you to all of the wonderful volunteers at the Ellicott Rehab Center for visiting us. They shared with us their wealth of knowledge and compassion for the raptors that they continue to provide for out of thier own pockets. The kids learned so much and loved the opportunity to see wildlife upclose! Sincerely, Erin Kurtchi