BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — A bald eagle that was injured in Big Bear received a successful life-saving transfusion from Bakersfield’s CALM Zoo resident bald eagle, Spirit.
Ojai Raptor Center Hospital announced that Bald Eagle patient 26-519 has been receiving veterinary and rehabilitation teams while working to better determine the underlying cause of her condition. The bird was found grounded and unable to fly a few days ago, according to the facility.
The center said initial bloodwork found that the eagle experienced severe anemia and inflammation affecting the kidneys. Further testing allowed the facility to rule out several potential causes, including lead toxicosis and the presence of foreign items such as fishing hooks, lines, and weights. They said her kidney inflammation also appeared to have improved.
On Thursday, it was announced that the eagle had a successful life-saving transfusion by Spirit, the resident bald eagle at California Living Museum (CALM Zoo) in Bakersfield. A social media post said, “Their willingness to help is a wonderful reminder of how the wildlife rehabilitation community comes together when an animal is in need.”
“The patient’s condition remains critical, and she continues to receive intensive care in our urgent care unit. A treatment plan has been developed to ensure we are covering all bases while we work to determine the cause of anemia. She is eating well, perching, and remains bright and strong,” said in the post. “While we are encouraged by the dedication and collaboration surrounding this case, it is still too early to predict the outcome. We know many of you are hoping for more answers, and so are we. Wildlife medicine often requires patience, and some answers simply take time.”
A bald eagle that was injured in Southern California received a successful life-saving transfusion from Bakersfield’s CALM Zoo resident bald eagle, Spirit. PHOTO: Instagram, Ojai Raptor Center
CALM responded to the post saying, “We’re incredibly grateful for our recent collaboration with Ojai Raptor Center to help support the recovery of patient #26-519. Ojai Raptor Center is an incredible organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of birds of prey, and we’re honored to work alongside them to help California’s native wildlife.”
CALM said Spirit arrived at their zoo in May 2003 from another wildlife rehabilitation facility after being rescued by Animal Control. The eagle was found unable to fly due to wing fractures, severely emaciated, scavenging for food, and trauma to her right eye. The comment said in part, “After a lengthy healing process, Spirit was determined to be non-releasable due to the long term effects of her previous injuries and has since become a permanent resident at CALM Zoo, where she helps educate guests about California’s native wildlife and the importance of conservation.”
Photo of Spirit at CALM Zoo in Bakersfield. PHOTO: KBAK/KBFX
CALM Zoo said their Animal Care Team performed a minimally invasive blood draw from Spirit. The blood was then safely transported to Ojai Raptor Center. After the procedure, Spirit was rewarded with some extra trout. “We wish patient #26-519 a smooth and speedy recovery and are grateful to everyone working tirelessly to help this magnificent bird.”