The von Arx Wildlife Hospital is open every day from 8am to 6pm. Call 239-262-2273 for wildlife help. We are located in Naples, Florida at 1495 Smith Preserve Way.
Spring has brought an increase in wildlife admissions to our von Arx Wildlife Hospital. In March, we admitted 206 animals and released 22 back into the wild. Among the patients are a variety of young animals, including baby owls, squirrels, opossums, and songbirds. We are also currently caring for two rescued bald eaglets found in separate locations around Naples.
The first eaglet was discovered near Hamilton Harbor after workers spotted the juvenile bird on the ground with a suspected leg injury. After a phone call to our hotline, the wildlife hospital staff responded to the scene, assessing both the bird and its surroundings for signs of a nest or nearby parents.
After determining the eaglet was unable to move properly, the team safely captured and transported it to the hospital for further evaluation. A sedated examination by our staff veterinarian revealed a fracture in the bird’s right fibula. Staff administered pain medication and began supportive care.
Since staff did not see any parents or a nest in the area, we reached out to Eagle Watch to see if they knew of a nest nearby. Once the location of the nest was sent to the wildlife staff, we reached out to a volunteer to see if they could scope out the nest. Not only was the volunteer able to confirm the nest, but they also saw that a parent and a sibling were still present in the area. This is a positive sign for the eagle’s future and eventual reunion.
However, because the nest is inaccessible, the eaglet will have to remain at the hospital until it is well enough to showcase strong flight. Currently, the eaglet is undergoing flight conditioning in a 100-foot aviary to rebuild strength and mobility.
The second eaglet was found at a construction site after it was seen jumping from its nest prematurely. Although the bird showed no obvious signs of injury, it remained on the ground for multiple hours which was raising concern for the rescuer. When staff arrived to assess the situation, they observed the eaglet’s parents flying overhead and vocalizing around the nest.
According to the individual who reported the incident, the parents had continued to feed and check on the eaglet. However, with nightfall approaching, staff was worried about the risk of predation. After consulting with wildlife experts, the decision was made to safely rescue and transport the eaglet to the wildlife hospital.
Our staff veterinarian did a full exam and confirmed the eaglet was healthy and approximately 8 weeks old. Now the team then faced an important decision, return the eaglet to the nest, where it might jump again and risk injury, or keep it in care. After consulting with multiple agencies, it was decided that the safest option was to care for the eaglet at the hospital.
The second eaglet has since been placed with the first, allowing both birds to develop natural behaviors together. This will help encourage feeding, exercise, and flight practice. Both eaglets will remain under care until they build the strength, stamina, and flight skills necessary for survival in the wild. Once ready, they will be released back into their natural habitat.
These cases highlight the challenges young wildlife face during nesting season and the critical role rehabilitation centers play in their survival. With a strong understanding of natural history, wildlife rehabilitators not only treat injuries but give animals a successful second chance at life.
The von Arx Wildlife Hospital is open every day from 8am to 6pm. Call 239-262-2273 for wildlife help. We are located in Naples, Florida at 1495 Smith Preserve Way.