This has probably been the quietest month of 2008. We have only seen 8 wild birds in the hospital, although our annual total has already exceeded 200; the first time for three years.

The usual mix of birds has come through our doors and these were:-

• Two Barn Owls who have been patients for a while and are now getting fit for release

  One juvenile Barn Owl which was found on the ground. It had wing damage which had become infected and it was very thin.
• Three Kestrels, two of them had serious wing fractures. The other one was found on the ground being attacked by a stoat. On examination it was found to have sustained a wound to the right side of its head and a superficial one to the right eye. It is receiving daily medication and eye drops and is showing signs of making a good recovery.
• One Red Kite found by the back door of a house in Newbury, Berkshire. It was very wet and cold but did not have any injuries. After some tender loving care and good food it has recovered well and has been returned to the wild.
• One Buzzard arrived with slight concussion having hit the road trying to avoid a moving vehicle. The accident was seen to happen by the person who brought it into us. He stopped his car and grabbed a coat, wrapped up the bird and brought it in. The bird has recovered well, I was able to meet up with the finder and we released it together.
• Two Tawny Owls have been to see us. One with concussion following a traffic accident and has now been released. The other one has a fractured wing and is receiving treatment.

King Vulture

The month has ended on a very exciting note. We have received a new bird from Rome Zoo. It is an adult male King Vulture. As you will see from the photograph he is a magnificent bird. There will be more about him in the New Year.

Kim, Mike and I would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and look forward to keeping you up to date on the activities of the Hilary Smith Bird of Prey Hospital in 2009.