Tweeters,

At about 4:30 yesterday afternoon the second Peregrine brought to the zoo was
euthanized. After lengthy discussion with Fish and Wildlife, Ernie Rose, Zoo
Vet Staff the consensus was that the infection was not responding to
treatment and the disfigurement of the jaw and beak, and the significant loss
of tissue and bone were such that the bird would never be able to eat on its
own let alone be released. The swelling had actually totally dislocated the
bird's beak and mouth and there was a hole the size of a small marble. The
only humane option was to euthanize the bird. A necropsy will be done today
and we willhave more information about the extent of the infection and the
injury sustained from hitting the window.

I have to tell you its one thing to talk about natural mortality rates and
struggles for survivial and quite another to hold a bird, have it look at you
with its one good eye before it is injected. No scientific detachment here.

Ernie Rose made a formal announcement to the press during Fish and
Wildlife's press conference on the Department of Interior's recommendation to
delist the Peregrine.

The other bird is holding its own, maintaining its weight and seems to be
responding to treatment. It is still being fed and medicated four times a
day, vocalising and picking at bits of quail. The vets are working to remove
the necrotic tissue. The factors bearing on whether this bird can be
released the size of the hole which remains at the back of its throat and the
possibility of food impaction in the hole and reinfection. The prognosis is
still guarded.

Hope you all have a great birding weekend.

Mike Waller
WP Zoo