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(Buteo swainsoni). Patient Number 24-1593.
Date of admission: September 14, 2024.
Reason for admission: Physical Injury.
Patient History:
Did you know that a Swainson’s hawk will travel up to 20,000 kilometers on its migratory journey to and from Argentina? These hawks are very gregarious and will migrate in kettles (flocks) numbering into the thousands!
These hawks are a common ‘buteo’ in the prairie region, meaning they have broad wings and a relatively short tail. Their colouring can be quite varied but usually, they are light-bellied with a dark or reddish-brown chest and brown or grey upper parts. Their wings are lined with white - a stark contrast to the blackish flight feathers. Most males have grey heads and females tend to generally have brown heads. The Swainson's hawks shown above are juveniles. This means that they have brownish plumage with streaks and markings that help them blend into their surroundings. Swainsons are born with a different plumage coloration than their adult counterparts. This juvenile plumage is seen during their first year of life.
Swainson’s hawks hunt from the air and sometimes from a perch. Their diet during the breeding season includes mice, voles, small birds, jackrabbits, and ground squirrels – with snakes thrown in the mix, too. They will even chase insects on the ground – insects make up the majority of their diet outside the breeding season – grasshoppers being a favorite food of choice. They also like dragonflies.
This Swainson's hawk was found injured on the side of the road east of High River, suspected to have been hit by a vehicle. Brought to AIWC for extended care, he was diagnosed with a fractured femur and prolonged respiratory issues. In the first week, he underwent surgery to repair the fracture and is healing remarkably well. He has since been moved to an outdoor enclosure to monitor his recovery, although he still shows mild respiratory concerns and is reluctant to eat on his own. Having missed his migration window, he will remain with AIWC until fully recovered, actively flying, and regaining his appetite—hopefully ready for release in Spring 2025!