Technique for Force-Feeding a Raptor
Aggressive Treatment for Emaciated Hawks and Falcons
Oct 23, 2008
No matter how weak and emaciated a hawk or falcon appears, it must be well-hydrated before attempting to feed. This often means the patient gets nothing but liquids (subcutaneous or intravenous and oral) for 24 to 48 hours before feeding.
What to Feed
Though raptors’ bodies are designed to handle fur and bone, it is advisable to start the bird off with meat that lacks indigestible body parts such as fur, feathers, feet, and heads. Chicken or cow liver is a nutrient-packed, easily digested food for a first feed after prolonged fluid therapy. Such food should only be given for the first one or two feedings, after which the introduction of some fur or feather is desirable to keep the gizzard functioning effectively.
A more natural and palatable meal for a raptor can be given in the form of a skinned frozen mouse or chick, available through many specialty pet suppliers or suppliers of food for zoos. These animals are raised and killed in a sterile environment and are known to be pathogen-free.
How to Feed
To skin a frozen mouse or chick (this technique is easier with mice) use a scalpel to remove the feet, tail, and head. Next, make a shallow cut down the center of the body. The upper layer of skin can then be peeled off by hand, usually in a single piece. Using the scalpel, cut the body into small pieces. Soaking the bits in lactated Ringer’s solution or other fluids can help keep the patient hydrated and make the food easier to swallow and digest.
Wrap the bird tightly in a towel so that it cannot claw, but be sure the head is free to move and the throat and chest is not constricted. Now, hold the bird upright on a table, facing away from you. You can even comfortably lean the bird up against your body. Next, open the raptor’s mouth by gently pulling down on the lower jaw. Tilting the bird’s head upward will give you a clear view inside its mouth, allowing you to avoid getting food or liquid in the glottis.
With a pair of tweezers, gently push the food as far toward the bird’s crop as is comfortable. Following up with a syringe of liquid can help induce swallowing, as can gently stroking the patient's throat in a downward motion.
Start off with small amounts: A half a mouse or chick twice a day for the first day, a whole mouse or chick twice a day on the second, until the bird is eating on its own.
Remember, raptors are protected under the Migratory Bird Act. Raptor rehabilitation should be attempted by properly licensed individuals only.
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