In a season of unprecedented winter snow storms for the Colorado Front Range, our fifth snow event in as many weeks has finally passed. We are patiently waiting for the weather to warm up and melt the huge piles of snow that cover the ground.
The birds in ICU have cabin fever. Three times as many birds have been admitted this month as in January 2006. Three American Kestrels arrived with severely oiled plumage; four more Kestrels are waiting to be moved outside.
One Red Tailed Hawk flew into a window and is recovering from head injuries; another is recovering from unknown exposure to toxins; and a third, beautiful Rufous Red Tailed Hawk arrived with gunshot injuries.
A Great Horned Owl was struck by a fire engine and three other Great Horned Owls are recovering from head trauma and various other problems.
Two Turkey vultures had to be brought inside to prevent frostbite and damage to the skin on their heads and feet from sub-zero temperatures. “Charming Chuck”, a permanent resident, tries to convince all the volunteers that he wants to take a stroll through the ICU. But oh! The damage he would do to our premise would be awesome! Another over-wintering young Turkey Vulture sounds like an opened water faucet every time we enter her room. She is more than unhappy about her confinement.
Our sweet little Mississippi Kite can’t understand why he can’t go outside and be happy and Figi, our 20-year- old Flammulated Owl, is giving us dirty looks, unable to understand why he has to stay inside.
At this time of year, our Foundation is usually a quiet place as we prepare for the upcoming “baby season” and anticipated releases in the warmth of Spring. However, currently the ICU is as full as it might be in May or June. Ice and snow covers the outside aviaries that currently house about 100 birds who need extra food and care in these frigid temperatures. Outdoor chores have become quite difficult. Our volunteers and staff are working very hard to care for all the needy birds outside, as well as the additional birds admitted since December.
You can help!
In-kind donations of saline solution (for cleaning wounds); game bird breeder and starter food for our quail; pine shavings; clean, crisp bales of straw are desperately needed. They are available at Front Range Pet and Supply in Louisville, 303-464-0956. Your donations can be dropped off at our ICU. Call 303-460-0674 for directions.
Don’t forget that we are always in need of your “gently used” items for our Thrift Shoppe located at Pine & Hwy 42, Louisville. Please call 720-890-4311 for shop hours.
Monetary donations for the care and food for our birds may be sent to 2290 S. 104th Street, Broomfield, CO 80020.
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