Mariah’s Treatment Begins
Photo courtesy of Carol Phillips
Updated 14 April!
Carol P, Mariah’s own Florence Nightingale, reports that she spent several hours at the rehab center with Mariah this afternoon. She was examined by vets this morning, and they found three wounds: The most serious is a deep chest wound. Fortunately, no internal organs appear to have been damaged. She also has a wound on her back that is 3-4 days old. This is consistent with watchers’ observations, and lends weight to our working theory that the territory battle began sometime on Friday afternoon. The third wound is a laceration on her wing which needs further examination. She also has a minor case of bumblefoot. Carol was able to assist with the treatment for that, applying antibiotic ointment to her feet.
Mariah was standing on her own today and she ate a several bites of quail soaked in Pedialite. This is a definite improvement. Even better, Carol reports that Mariah was tracking their movements, something she wasn’t doing yesterday. The picture above shows the rehabilitation specialist feeding quail to her using a pair of foreceps. She’s undergoing antibiotic therapy and she’ll likely need surgery to repair her wounds. She’s not out of the woods yet, though. The vets are concerned that her feces are black and runny (a possible sign of internal bleeding). The news is certainly a mixed bag, but there are hopeful signs. All in all, Mariah’s proving once again what a tough bird she is.
UPDATE: The DEC has been in contact with Mariah’s local caregivers, and they have decided to move her to Syracuse tomorrow morning for further evaluation and treatment. The DEC works with a private veterinary doctor in Syracuse who has a lot of experience treating falcons, and they feel that this move will allow Mariah to get the best possible care. We’re extremely grateful for their efforts and for those of the local rehab specialist and veterinarian who took time from their holidays to provide the early care and stabilization that Mariah needed. Mike Allen reports that his ultimate goal is to return Mariah to the wild, though this obviously raises some questions which will have to be answered as we get further along in Mariah’s treatment and recovery.
April 14th, 2009 at 3:26 AM
Thank you for the update…it is comforting to know Mariah is in such caring hands.
April 14th, 2009 at 3:28 AM
Ohh Mariah !!
So many prayers are coming your way from around the world. We are all praying for you.
Please be well —
. . . Lola
April 14th, 2009 at 3:30 AM
Holding out for hope. I don’t know who the “rehabilitator” is – but whoever you are, THANK YOU. Keep up the exceptional care – we all need a happy ending – and Mariah is so deserving of one!
April 14th, 2009 at 4:10 AM
Can CarolP go to Syracruse with Mariah? I know I’d feel better if she had her there with her. Ok maybe that would be asking too much… Ugh.
Praying for our Mariah.. stay strong girl.
Janie
April 14th, 2009 at 4:13 AM
What is in Syracuse better Vets? Will they keep us updated? Are they sure moving her won’t cause her more stress? Sorry too many questions.
You are in my prayers dear Mariah.
April 14th, 2009 at 4:20 AM
Barb; Cornelle university is a cutting edge veterinary school just outside of Syracuse. I can’t imagine a better place for Mariah’s recovery. In short, Yes, better Vets. I am just guessing that is where she is headed.
April 14th, 2009 at 4:23 AM
@Barb – We don’t have all the details yet but it appears that the DEC is taking over all aspects of Mariah’s care, and they feel that they can best do that at a facility in Syracuse. Mike Allen will be picking up Mariah from the rehabilitators tomorrow and transporting her, so we know she’s in good hands. Mike assures us he’ll keep us informed of her progress.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:15 AM
I was so sad to read that Kaver had not returned this year, but this news just rends my heart. Much love, zen and white light headed out to dear Mariah for her eventual recovery from her wounds, and hopes that she can continue to be a proud representative of falcons worldwide.
It is hard to accept that there will be new falcons to watch now, and that we might even be able to cheer them on as we once did Mariah and Kaver, but this is, indeed, the natural progression of things, and we will adjust given time.
thanks so much for everyone involved with the webcams, wonderful photos we enjoy so much, this website, and especially for Mariah’s rescuers and caretakers now.
Nancy in Utah
April 14th, 2009 at 10:50 AM
It hurt to read of this iconic iron lady of Rochester being brought to earth, to rise, only to fall again.
The prior post mentioned a possible eyesight problem. Does this remain a concern? If so, to what extent is her injury?
Also mentioned was that she may be ready to lay eggs. If so, is she physically able, or will/has her body aborted?
It will be tragic if she cannot return to the skies.
April 14th, 2009 at 11:30 AM
There is something overwhelming about seeing this bird up close. She has always been free spirit of the skies…to see her up close, personal, and injured, is simply surreal.
My thanks again to all that are assisting with helping the Queen of Rochester’s Skies!
April 14th, 2009 at 12:10 PM
Ah battle scars, something a strong long-lived woman “collects” over her many years…but it’s wonderful that all of you have her best interests in mind, and she is accepting the help. Please keep us posted (I know I don’t have to say that, but it’s the motherly thing to do). You’re all the best!! I have mailed a check to an address I found on yesterdays post – please see to it that she gets all the quail Mariah demands!
April 14th, 2009 at 12:11 PM
Thank you so much for the ‘update’ – so many people are anxious about this magnificent bird. Best wishes to all concerned who are giving so much love and care to ‘Mariah the Magnificent’ .
April 14th, 2009 at 1:08 PM
Thank you for keeping us updated daily, it is comforting to know she is in such good hands and really good news that she is eating. And a big thank you to Jim and Carol for saving our girl and staying by her side!!
April 14th, 2009 at 1:22 PM
I know we have avid Mariah fans in Syracuse (they reported frequently on the Syracuse falcons and becaue watchers at the nest there) – it would be nice if the DEC allowed at least one of them the same visiting priviledges that Carol P has enjoyed here, so that they may give us updates.
April 14th, 2009 at 1:28 PM
Here’s another thank you for the updates.
Mariah is face of Peregrines for me because I’ve been able to watch her up close, so thanks are due to Kodak for the scrape and cameras, to the watchers for their reports, and to DEC for efforts to aid to the birds and educate the human fans.
April 14th, 2009 at 1:47 PM
Thank you for keeping us in the loop as always, Jess. And again, thank you to Carol P. and everyone else providing Mariah good care.
April 14th, 2009 at 1:48 PM
A side note… the PayPal link does not seem to work, i.e., your gmail address is not accepting money. I received an error message when trying to make a donation to Mariah’s care. In addition, your ‘rfalconcam.com’ email address to ‘sponsorship’ seems to be out of order too as I received bounce back messages when trying to send a message regarding the PayPal link.
April 14th, 2009 at 1:55 PM
@Maureen – Along with everything else, we’re in the middle of migrating our website to new servers. Unfortunately that’s causing some hiccups with our email addresses. We’re working to correct the situation and hope to have it resolved soon.
@bluhawkk – Those are all good questions, to which we hope to have answers soon. Any answer I give now would be pure speculation though, so I’m going to avoid that in favor of getting a definitive answer from the medical professionals.
April 14th, 2009 at 2:01 PM
We are all praying for Mariah-I’ve been humming the song Call the Wind Mariah since I heard about her attack. It is in God’s hands as HE cares for all HIS creatures.
As bad as this is, it was a natural attack and part of a falcon’s life. The death of her first new male tiercel a couple of weeks ago by a vehicle was a crime – at least his little body was found by the side of the road.
Prayers for Mariah and all of the caregivers/sitters that will help her. Thank you.
April 14th, 2009 at 2:19 PM
When Miriah gets well (and I’m praying that she will), if she can’t fly or has very limited flight, can we have her back? Seneca Park Zoo has the facilities for raptors and she would have a comfortable life there if she can no longer take to the skies.
April 14th, 2009 at 3:23 PM
Thank you for the update. It appears that Mariah is in good hands. Hopefully, even though she’s going to Syracuse we’ll still be able to have timely updates.
April 14th, 2009 at 3:57 PM
Thank you Jess for the update on Mariah. It’s wonderful to see how many are rallying and praying for her recovery. It’s a great ‘family’ of friends that love the M&K Family and have the same thoughts and feelings of love. God Bless all of you that are taking care of Mariah – I hope she feels the human love in the care giving for her as well as a higher power letting her somehow know she’s loved by thousands. I will keep praying for her strong recovery.
April 14th, 2009 at 4:15 PM
@Jess – thanks for the info on your server migration. I’ll try again soon.
April 14th, 2009 at 6:12 PM
Just wanted to add that the name of the not-for-profit organization that rehabed Mariah was Black Creek Wildlife Station run by Gary and Trish Zimmerman in Churchville NY. They are a retired couple and dedicate most of their lives to rehabilating injured wildlife. Gary was willing to take her in on Sunday during the Easter Holiday even after the 24 hour emergency veterinary facility in Rochester refused to see her. http://www.bcwildlifestation.com/
Kudos to Brian and Carol and their quick response, it saved her life.
I can personally testify that she received the best of care with them, and only had her best interest in mind. She left their care, Bright and alert!
April 14th, 2009 at 6:27 PM
Thanks to all of you wonderful Rochester falcon watchers and protectors! My heart is breaking for our Mariah – I was just watching her soar around Midtown last week from my office window and loved the ringside seat. I pray we see her back in the skies before long. I assume the people in Syracuse know how important she is to us here and that she gets VIP treatment! Thanks so much for keeping us up to date.
April 14th, 2009 at 6:53 PM
Precious Mariah, take all the love, prayers and healing thoughts and surround yourself. You won our hearts, oh Mighty One, and you still have our love.
Prayers of healing to this beautiful lady.
April 14th, 2009 at 6:56 PM
All our prayers for Mariah’s recovery. We who are in awe of these magnificent birds will send positive thoughts and healing energy her way.
Thank you to those who are keeping us informed. And prayers for those caring for her as well, that they will be guided to do the ultimate good.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:49 PM
Very encouraging news. Thanks so much for the updates!
I REALLY hope that folks in charge will think long and hard before deciding to relase her, as opposed to a semi free life as Barb C. suggests in the Seneca Park Zoo, or some other facility. Seems to me chances are great that she would be attacked again, and that would be a tragedy. She has earned her place in a good rest home!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:55 PM
Stay strong Mariah. It has been wonderful watching your young grow and go on their own. Where would anyone be able to release her in this area that she would not go back to the same location again? She had access to so much of our city and now there is a new pair, maybe 2. Without a mate, Mariah has no one to watch out for her and help her protect any territory. And that is the way of nature. The young move in on the old and take over. I understand that humans probably should let nature take its course, but we should also continue care for Mariah. She will most likely only be hurt or killed if released again. How long do falcons live? And…since we have been ‘interfering’ with nature anyway, why not keep her safe somewhere so she isn’t injured again and lives the rest of her life in safety.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:50 PM
Looks like they’ll have to triage Mariah’s multiple injuries very carefully. After all she’s been through battling two attackers for three days it’s remarkable she’s still with us at all. Brave girl. Hoping to hear she’s out of the woods soon.
I assume the DEC will slap a band on her while she’s in their care, preferably something diamond studded. 😉
April 14th, 2009 at 10:40 PM
I SO DISAGREE with banding her!
She’s gone this long free – let her be!
April 15th, 2009 at 12:02 AM
I agree, but if (hoping she won’t)she can no longer take care of herself being out there, Seneca Park zoo sounds like a lovely idea, then we can visit her often. Don’t mean to sound pesimistic, just a thought. I pray she will recover. Thank you for all the hard work from everyone involved. I feel for her. She is so special.
April 15th, 2009 at 12:04 AM
Juanita Woods, those were some lovely words, I couldn’t have said it better.
April 15th, 2009 at 12:37 AM
I want to commend all of the loyal fans of Mariah both here in the comments section and on Kfalconcam. They are a classy group of people. With everything that has happened to Mariah, thank you all for not bashing the tiercel and new female as many did a couple of years back in the Netherlands. It is wonderful to see that so many understand nature taking its course…as much as it hurts.
April 15th, 2009 at 12:47 AM
P.S. As I mentioned on Kfalconcam…I think it is time to rename Nubo…XBO, until we find out his banded name if he has one. 🙂
April 15th, 2009 at 1:16 AM
Thank you so much to Carol and Brian for being there for Mariah…when so many of us would love to but live so far away. It hurts to see her hurt but I’m sure anything necessary will be done to make her well again. She is a treasure and is in many prayers for a quick recovery. (HUGS, Mariah!)
April 15th, 2009 at 1:38 AM
I work downtown near Midtown and noticed the increased activity the past few days. Unfortunately, not being as experienced as others, I didn’t understand what was going on. I will echo the sentiments that have already been expressed here regarding Kodak and the dedicated “watchers”. Kodak, as well as other companies in the downtown area, the DEC and the dedicated watchers have done so much to enhance this experience for all of us. Deep down I believe we knew there may come a day when Mariah would face an adversary or not return at all. Nature can be unkind. I remember when Cabot-Sirocco did not return, and the year the transmitter was put on Havoc and we learned he did not make it. They all, especially Mariah, have become part of our world and it’s so sad when something like this happens. That being said, I am so thankful for Carol, Brian, Jess and all of the folks who stand (sometimes they sit) for hours watching and caring for these magnificent creatures. I noticed there were soem folks there today. Please keep informed – we so appreciate it.
April 15th, 2009 at 1:42 AM
Here’s a news story and video on Mariah:
http://www.13wham.com/news/local/story/Falcon-Fight-Leaves-Mariah-Injured/bM8KZsTMMEeyaFtYg5KJ5w.cspx
April 15th, 2009 at 3:13 AM
Please continue to keep us in the loop about her progress and if she returns to health, let her be in a safe place.
She has become so special to our City and has had such a downturn in luck this season.
She deserves to be cared for and die peacefully of old age, if she does not become too depressed by her loss of freedom.
Peregrine Falcons live an average of 15.5 years. She should live hers out with no more hurt
April 15th, 2009 at 7:05 AM
Wow, how very sad for our dear Mariah. Thanks to the watchers for making sure she was protected, and I’m so glad she’s receiving such good care. In my ninth year of watching her, my thoughts are with her.
Ironic that as peregrines have begun to flourish again it threatens our own Mariah.
Nothing will be the same after this.
April 15th, 2009 at 12:48 PM
@Birdlover – thanks for the story link! I especially loved this,
<>
Is it true that the other two falcons haven’t been seen since?
April 15th, 2009 at 12:49 PM
Oops… my copy/paste didn’t post for some reason. Here it is again,
“The two falcons who messed with her have not been seen since.
Mariah rules the roost.”
April 15th, 2009 at 1:15 PM
This is not true Maureen. There are now two Falcons at Midtown Plaza.
April 15th, 2009 at 3:33 PM
The media are full of errors about the Rochester falcons. An earlier report told of Mariah already in the family way at the Power site where the webcams are set up and we KNOW no falcons have been there since the cameras came on-line.
I would always believe what I read posted here by Jess, Carol P, etc. over anything in a newspaper or on TV.
April 15th, 2009 at 4:45 PM
Thanks Carol P. and Alison for letting me know the news site is inaccurate. I was hoping the two falcons had left so that Mariah could be released safely, when the time comes. But, I had a feeling they were still around after all the fighting. Thanks again for the correction!
April 15th, 2009 at 7:47 PM
I am not counting on Mariah being released this season. The wounds sound very serious. There will be a lot of healing and rehabilitation before Mariah is up to high speed chases and 200 mph stoops.
April 16th, 2009 at 4:08 AM
I agree with Chrissy … band that bird!
I’ve been watching since 2002 when Cabot-Sirocco did not return and Kaver was accepted as Mariah’s new mate. This year has been hard for me having this happen to Mariah and Kaver not returning.
Thanks to all the watchers. Sometimes I wish I lived Rochester NY instead of E. Tennessee so I could watch in person.