Broad-Winged Hawk Intake/Release

Two Juvenile Broad-Winged Hawks that had been in rehabilitation at the Center for Wildlife were released on the top of Mt. Agamenticus on September 21st, 2006. These birds were from Gray, Maine and Kennebunk Maine. Both were found near roads with injuries that indicated possible glancing blows from collisions with cars - trauma to head/eyes, scrapes on feet.

One was brought to the Center for Wildlife on August 29th, and the other on September 15th. Both were born this summer - probably in May, and are now in route to Texas to pass across into Central America where they will spend the winter.

If all goes well, they will return to this area to breed next spring. In migration, they fly as many as 250 miles at time, stopping to rest between flights. Juveniles have only a 60% chance of surviving into their second year due to the many skills they must learn their first year.

We wish them safe travels!

---

The Center tries to give much needed care but still allow the animals to be wild, with the intention of letting them go when they are ready to care for themselves. Too much "love" can result in a baby animal imprinting on the humans caring for it and that makes it difficult to release. If you find an animal that seems to be in need, keep an eye on it for while before you decide to take it in. Sometimes, Mom is right around the corner and will retrieve a baby in a short while. If you do decide to intervene, call the Center and get instructions on how to properly handle the animal or call the Animal Control officer in your town.