(posted by Terry Sprague for Sue Meech of the Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre)
Yellow-nosed Albatross update
July 22nd
The bird has gained weight over the last two days. Also getting a bit feisty
and resisting treatment! Watch out for that bill!. We are hand feeding him
still, with an occasional tube feeding to increase his intake.
X-rays reveal no lead and no trauma. Our Volunteer Vet will look tomorrow to
see if there is any evidence of Aspergilla, a fungal growth that is caused
by stressful situations, such as malnutrition. Aspergilla is present in the
soil and is not a problem unless a bird is debilitated then it becomes an
opportunistic disease. We are treating the albatross for this just in case.
We are investigating possible transfer of the bird now that he is stronger
to a more suitable facility, preferably one that has sea water and salt
water food available. We have to work with Canadian Wildlife Services to get
permission to transport this bird. Nova Scotia is one option. Massachusetts
another possibility.
Albatrosses don't usually have any association with humans in the wild. To
avoid trauma to the bird during this critical period, it will not be
possible for birders to see this bird while it is at the facility. We thank
all birders who have already respected this request.
Sue Meech
Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre
Napanee Ontario
Canada
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