We have a good relationship with several of the local airfields, who often call us for advice when they find Raptors in trouble.
A few weeks ago we received a call from staff at Wattisham airfield to let us know that a young Kestrel had found its way into one of the hangers and was grounded. We called one of our Owlreach volunteers, who happens to work at the airfield and they were able to pick up the bird and bring it to us for a check up.
This young Kestrel still had fluffy down when it first arrived.
Unfortunately, the Kestrel had left the nest prematurely and it’s flight feathers weren’t fully grown. Falconers use the term “in blood” as feathers have a blood supply while they are growing. Once they are fully grown, the blood supply stops. During this time, it’s really important that the feathers don’t get bumped or damaged in any way, as it’s not only painful (like a bruise) but they won’t be able to replace them until next year!
Thankfully, this Kestrel knew that we were trying to help and remained calm during it’s stay with us. It was offered plenty of food to help with the feather growth and give it a good chance of surviving once released.
After a couple of weeks with us, the Kestrel had finished growing it’s feathers and was ready for release.
We were able to ring this youngster while it was staying with us, where we discovered that it was a typical Kestrel with a very feisty attitude! After a couple of weeks in our care, and with some fresh feathers fully formed, it was ready to be released back where it came from.