It was a rough Thanksgiving weekend for American bald eagle Leuco. He was safely (or so we thought) living at the Environmental Studies Center (ESC) in Mobile.
Somehow, over the Thanksgiving break, he was in some type of accident. The staff is not sure exactly what happened, but somehow, Leuco seriously injured his beak. This injury is potentially life-threatening to raptors such as eagles as their beak is the only method they have to secure food and eat.
Over the holiday, the ESC staff obtained guidance from the veterinary staff at the Auburn Raptor Center about Leuco’s care since injured.
He is being transported to the Auburn Raptor Center on Tuesday for a CAT scan and exam to see what can be done. It will be done under anesthesia. The procedure is something that cannot be done at the Mobile ESC. They are asking for your assistance.
Needless to say, this will be a very expensive vet visit, and unfortunately, Leuco does not have health insurance.
Leuco, who is 25 years old, has spent his life in captivity. He was born in a nest that was being monitored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. At five days old, he was removed because it was clear his beak was deformed, and he would have difficulty eating the food he caught.
His food is specially prepared at ESC to make it easier for him to eat. He spent time at another facility before he was given to ESC over 10 years ago. During his tenure at ESC, he has been viewed by thousands of students and citizens and has become an animal ambassador to teach people about eagles. He is the star of the Raptor Road Show and is a crowd-pleaser, always posing like the majestic bird he is. He is bonded to the ESC biologist.
Tracy Jay, ESC director, made this appeal:
If you are so inclined, we would be so very grateful for any assistance you can provide. You can donate on our website at the top of the page next to the silhouette of the rabbit. Just click on the word DONATE and scroll down to Pay Environmental CTR Contribution. Our website is www.mcpsesc.com
You can also drop off a donation or mail it to ESC, 6101 Girby Road, Mobile, AL 36693.
Donations can be made directly over the phone by calling Grace at 251-221-5000 x 2.
We can provide donation receipts for tax purposes if you provide your information.
All donations will go 100% to his medical bills.
Thank you so much for your support. We could not do the things we do without you. We will continue to update you on his progress.
With sincere gratitude,
Tracy Jay
Director, Mobile ESC.
Jim ‘Zig’ Zeigler writes about Alabama’s people, places, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former Alabama Public Service Commissioner and State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com.
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