At Vida Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center, every animal that comes through our doors has a unique story. Some find healing and return to the wild, while others take a different path—one that allows them to inspire and educate people about the importance of wildlife conservation.
One such story is that of a red-shouldered hawk that was brought to us after being found injured. Upon arrival, we conducted a full intake examination, and it was immediately clear that something was wrong with his left wing. The way he held it close to his body, reluctant to extend it, signaled a serious injury. To confirm our suspicions, we took radiographs, which revealed the extent of his damage—his ulna was broken in two places, and his radius had been dislocated from the humerus bone.
Our team carefully stabilized the fractures and set the dislocation correctly, hoping that with time and proper care, he would regain full use of his wing. Over the next several weeks, the hawk rested and received daily medical attention, his diet carefully monitored to ensure he had the nutrition needed for bone healing. His ulna mended well, and he grew stronger, but despite our best efforts, it became clear that he would never be able to hunt effectively again.
Releasing an animal that cannot hunt is not an option—it would mean a slow and painful fate in the wild. However, because his injuries were not life-threatening and his temperament was calm and well-adjusted to human presence, we knew he had another chance at life. Instead of being released, he was transferred to another facility, where he would become a wildlife ambassador.
Our team carefully stabilized the fractures and set the dislocation correctly, hoping that with time and proper care, he would regain full use of his wing. Over the next several weeks, the hawk rested and received daily medical attention, his diet carefully monitored to ensure he had the nutrition needed for bone healing. His ulna mended well, and he grew stronger, but despite our best efforts, it became clear that he would never be able to hunt effectively again.
Releasing an animal that cannot hunt is not an option—it would mean a slow and painful fate in the wild. However, because his injuries were not life-threatening and his temperament was calm and well-adjusted to human presence, we knew he had another chance at life. Instead of being released, he was transferred to another facility, where he would become a wildlife ambassador.
Now, this once-injured red-shouldered hawk has a new purpose—helping to educate people about raptors and the challenges they face in the wild. He receives the long-term medical care he needs and a high-quality diet that ensures he remains healthy and strong. Though he will never soar freely again, he plays an important role in inspiring others to protect and appreciate the incredible wildlife that shares our world.
At Vida Wildlife, not every rescue ends with release, but every life we save matters. Whether they return to the skies or find a new purpose, each patient is given the best possible chance at a future.
