Fairfax, Va. reporting downed birds off migratory path

[Ronan Kelly]

Fairfax, Va. reporting downed birds off migratory path
Wednesday - 1/15/2014, 4:12pm ET
WASHINGTON -- Animal Control officers in Fairfax, Va., say they have received several reports of "downed" birds in the area. They have been identified as Eared Grebes, and were likely thrown off their migratory path due to the recent cold snap across the Northeast.
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http://www.wtop.com/41/3542976/Fairfax-Va-reporting-downed-birds-off-migratory-path

Interestingly, although probably not related, Eared Grebes infected with West Nile virus are suspected to be responsible for the deaths of 40 Bald Eagle in Utah this winter - Ro http://www.flutrackers.com/forum/showthread.php?p=518228

 

[Ronan Kelly]

Re: Fairfax, Va. reporting downed birds off migratory path

Fairfax County Police Department
Public Information Office
4100 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Va. 22030
703-246-2253. TTY 703-204-2264. Fax 703-246-4253
FCPD-PIO@fairfaxcounty.gov
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police
News Release/2014/LHC
January 15, 2014

Report ?Lost? Birds
Animal Control officers have received several reports of ?downed? birds and ask residents to be alert and aware of the issue. Likely thrown off their migratory track due to recent frigid weather, the Eared Grebes are being found around the county.

They have webbed feet and are typically birds that swim and fly; and are not accustomed to walking so they appear wobbly or injured. The Fairfax County Wildlife Biologist identified the birds.

Police are coordinating with local veterinarians and the Wildlife Rescue League for a humane re-location of the birds.

Anyone who sees the Eared Grebes should call for an Animal Control Officer at 703-691-4131.
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/news-releases/2014/011514lostbirds.htm

 

[Ronan Kelly]

Re: Fairfax, Va. reporting downed birds off migratory path

Apparently these may be horned grebes, not eared grebes;

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On Jan 15, 2014, at 11:46 AM, Leslie S <lsturges...> wrote:
>
> I think you're right. Horned grebes have been received by the larger rehabilitation facilities, which have more experience with bird ID. Here's a link to a recent release of 5 horned grebes wildlifecenter.org/critter-corner/current-patients/water-dance-grebes.
>
>
> Leslie
>
>
> On 01/15/14, Frank Fogarty<fogartyfa...> wrote:
>
> The bird in the press release is a Horned Grebe, not an Eared Grebe. I'm
> assuming the Fairfax County Wildlife Biologist is just misidentifying them?
> Seems like a fallout of Eared Grebe would be quite unusual for VA...
>
> Frank Fogarty
> Smithfield
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http://digest.sialia.com/?rm=message;id=795707