Hawk Rescue

Although the primary focus of the Three Seas Program is to study marine biology we are also given opportunities to explore the terrestrial world. Our last class, Tropical Terrestrial Ecology, included many opportunities to explore rainforests, collect tree measurements, and trips to many great birding locations.

In addition to the planned terrestrial experiences we have also had several unexpected encounters. A few days ago an injured hawk was brought in to STRI. We identified the bird as a common black hawk. The hawk was unable to fly and had large amounts of dried blood on its right wing.

Very carefully and cautiously, the bird's wing was cleaned by a few members of our group. The hawk was then placed in a cage to allow it to rest and recover. Later on that day, once the hawk was becoming more active we decided to release the bird and opened the cage. The hawk was initially hesitant and watched us intently. Eventually the bird took off and with a slightly labored effort flew away (after a close call with a caiman!)

Our time in Panama has contained many unexpected adventures and, as we wrap up our last two weeks, I hope there are still a few more!