Species:

Lesser Nighthawk

Time in Care:

44 Days

Status:

Released

On January 1st, 2025, SBWCN welcomed its first patient of the new year, an adult Lesser Nighthawk (LENH). LENH-1 was brought in as a suspected window strike, he was found on the ground not flying away from capture and with some drooping feathers on his side. After intake, other clues pointing to the nighthawk striking a window came to light. He had a crack along his beak which was monitored closely and he was seen squinting in one eye, both signs of trauma around his head. Perhaps a consequence of his injury, he was also severely dehydrated.

Not backing down from the challenge, SBWCN staff took him in and gave him a mix of pain and supportive medication along with fluids. He was scheduled for a vet visit to assess the beak injury which was deemed minor after observation and able to heal if left alone. After only five days in care and two successful test flights in an aviary, LENH was ready to be released, setting an auspicious and exciting event for our staff welcoming in the new year!