FLORIDA KEYS: LEARNING ABOUT BIRD REHAB

FLORIDA KEYS WILD BIRD REHAB CENTER

This was very eye opening and sobering experience. The Florida Keys natural environment is deteriorating because of human population, loss of habitat, and pollution. It is estimated that 80% of bird injuries have been caused by fish hooks and monofilament fishing line.

I spent two days watching and photographing injured pelicans, spoonbills, hawks, egrets, heron, and many more.

The pictured Roseate Spoonbill had his left foot bitten off by a dog. The staff replaces his cast everyday and add padding to his right so that it doesn't become over stressed.

SAFETY TIPS FOR BIRDS

• Fish hooks and monofilament line can mean disaster for our birds...ripped pouches, torn necks, broken wings, entangled bodies.

• Be responsible when using baited hooks. They DO tempt hungry birds.

• Dispose of all fish line and plastics in a safe receptacle. NEVER discard them in the water.

• If you accidentally hook a a bird, NEVER allow him to fly off without first removing any attached fish line. Entanglement and death (by starvation or by hanging) all too often results.

• Birds are built to swallow fish no bigger than those that they themselves can catch-- their digestive systems aren't designed to deal with large bones and carcasses. Oversized, razor-sharp bones puncture, protrude and, most often, kill. Keep this in mind when you clean fish and toss unwanted parts to the birds.

For More information write: Florida Keys Wild Bird Center 93600 Overseas Highway Travernier, FL 33070

Or check out www.fkwbc.org