Frigate bird released from top of bridge

By Joanna Fitzgerald | Director of the von Arx Wildlife Hospital

The frigatebird release was particularly exciting because we rarely admit frigatebirds. This juvenile frigate had arrived at the hospital entangled in fishing line and hooks. After almost three weeks of care the bird was cleared for release.

Hospital staff released the bird in the location near where it was found and watched as it soared into the air circling overhead to gain lift. Within minutes a group of frigatebirds, known as a “fleet” or “flotilla”, appeared in the sky near where the released bird was soaring.

An already successful release was even more exciting because the family that won the drawing held at our wildlife baby shower last June, which provided the opportunity to attend a release, was in attendance. Such fun to share that moment with some of the people who support all we do to protect native wildlife.

We can still use more items on our wish list, visit www.conservancy.org/wishlist.