Date:         Fri, 26 Dec 2003 12:50:09 -0500
Reply-To:     Maryland Birds & Birding <MDOSPREY@HOME.EASE.LSOFT.COM>
Sender:       Maryland Birds & Birding <MDOSPREY@HOME.EASE.LSOFT.COM>
From:         Steve Huy <Gabboon@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Christmas Eagles!
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<No I didnt know that about cats and raptors......>

something I've learned from my study of management of captive raptors and rehab.  Fatality is near 100% if untreated.  Levels of antibiotics needed to prevent infection are suspected to lead to liver damage that may kill the bird within the year (falconry sources).  This applies to all birds.  Cat bites are nasty enough for other mammals; I've had one myself and it was extremely unpleasant.  I didn't seek immediate treatment and was told I could have lost my hand had I waited another day to see a doctor. Birds seem to be extra sensitive to the bacteria in a cat's bite.

<Did you know that cats can die from eagles impaling them with thier talons almost instantly.>

Possibly, but unlikely, particularly with a young inexperienced eagle.  Death by raptor is not often instant.  Ever watch a hawk or eagle catch and eat something?  It is often still alive and moving as the bird begins to eat. Cats are very tough (9 lives) and will continue to fight long after normal prey (birds/fish/rodents) would have given up.

<I take it your not a cat person?>

Not according to the three that run my life!

steve

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