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Virginia Hawk Diagnosed 'Too Fat to Fly'
5 Nov
Summary
- A red-shouldered hawk was found unable to fly due to excess weight.
- The hawk weighed over 910 grams, too heavy for flight.
- She feasted on free-ranging chickens, leading to weight gain.
A red-shouldered hawk in Virginia has been humorously diagnosed as "too fat to fly" by wildlife experts. The adult hawk, found grounded about a mile from the Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center, weighed an excessive 910 grams. Initial examinations ruled out common issues like injuries, toxicity, or illness.
The diagnosis of obesity was confirmed, with experts noting the bird's keel was completely covered in fat. It's believed the hawk had been regularly feasting on free-ranging chickens, consuming her fill before resting, and repeating the cycle.
This amusing incident could have had severe consequences for the hawk, leaving her vulnerable to predators. Social media users found the diagnosis entertaining, with many sharing similar experiences with their own flocks.
