Dixie the Whistling Kite - 25th August 2012
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Age: Sub-adult Sex: Unknown
Found: By pigging dogs at Coochin Creek in Glass House Mountains, with a fishing hook and lure from its beak to its feet pinning its head down.
Transported to: The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital by the concerned gentleman who made the discovery.
Veterinary Assessment: Dr Amber's assessment found Dixie also had a fractured middle toe on the right foot that required amputation.
Treatment: Dr Amber administered Dixie pain relief and anaesthetic in order to remove the hooks and amputate the injured toe. She also cleaned the wounds to Dixie's leg and beak.
Future: As raptors require specialised care, Dixie will undergo intensive rehabilitation at the AZWH. Assessment before release will ensure Dixie is able to hunt in the wild.
AZWH Statistic: Over 40 patients so far this year have been admitted after becoming entangled in fishing tackle. Please be a responsible fisherman and clean up around our waterways!
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Rescue vehicles and staff are on call seven days a week. Please don’t let wildlife suffer – give us a call, we'll take care of it!
