Gibsons Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
1211 Carmen rd. V0N 1V4 Gibsons, BC, Canada

Many of you know of the immature bald eagle that was recently spotted at the side of the road in Roberts Creek, so we thought we should give you an update: The eagle was transferred to Orphaned Wildlife (raptor rehabilitation specialists) in Delta for their expertise. Their diagnosis was that the bird had been electrocuted and, sadly, due to the wings being irreparably damaged, the eagle was euthanized. Disappointing as it is, it was better this than have the bird suffer and die slowly in the wild. Many thanks to our staff member Ameleia Clark who managed to capture the eagle, and all those who reached out to help.

This mew gull was brought in to Gibsons Wildlife Rehab. Centre either unable or unwilling to fly. An examination showed no broken bones, but a minor wing wound likely makes flying painful. He is alert and eating well, so a few days in our care should give the injury time to heal. Once we determine that he can readily fly, we will release him where he was found. At about 2/3 the length and half the weight of our familiar glaucous-winged gull, the mew gull is named for its distinctive mewling cry. Among local gulls, only the less common Bonaparte's gull is smaller.

The lovely varied thrush is a frequent winter visitor to Sunshine Coast backyards, which, while enjoyable to watch, can sometimes lead to mishaps. After flying into a window, this male was admitted to our Centre suffering from concussion, an injured eye and missing feathers. Thankfully he recovered in a few days from the concussion and, with the help of antibiotics, his eye injury has also healed. With his feathers now growing back, he will soon be ready for release.

A rarity on the Sunshine Coast, this short-eared owl was found on a trail in Selma Park with a badly broken wing. It was taken to Night Owl Bird Hospital for specialized care. Sadly, despite successful surgery, the owl died. According to bird expert Tony Greenfield, this species of owl has not been seen on the Coast for 20 years. While disappointed we could not save this beautiful bird, we're consoled by remembering the number of birds and mammals that we do manage to help and release back to the wild.

If they are not sleeping in their den, our two raccoon kits are out playing or climbing the branches of their outdoor enclosure. The kits are wintering over and will be released in the spring. ~Ameleia Clark photo