Tuesday, 9 August 2016

Raptors' and Owls' Weights

Beginning a gross physical examination of a Striped Owl, Ortuguese name: coruja orelhuda. Scientific name:Rhinoptynx clamator
Two weeks ago I decided to look for more opportunites to get involved in small animal surgery here in Cuiaba.  For several months I have been in Bairro Lixeira at the small animal clinic there.  Whilst impressed at their didacttic approach to helping undergraduates, I realised I was unhappy with the way things were going - mostly because there was hardly any surgery going on.

Today was my first day at a new surgery.  That of a former professor of mine.  It turned out to be thr right move.  Straightaway I was in to two surgical procedures, confirming to myself that I do love surgery whatever the species.

In another development I am now in daily dialogue with the state environmental department, advising them on bird of prey management.  We intend to start rehabilitating owls.

And on yet another front I got a message out of the blue to invite me to give a short course on falconry at a forthcoming conference in November.

Ferruginous Pygmy Owl, Portuguese name: caburé.  Scientific name: Glaucidium brasilianum,


Note:  one thing that is important to mention to whoever is iterested in bird weights as they relate to falconry (or rehabilitation).  There is no standard weight for a bird, and to give such is miselading.  A bird's weight varies multifactorially.

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