Be mindful of your impact on the environment – Dr Shabeer
“Without this space, although we may not see them, many of these animals are living among us in our neighbourhoods.”
Following the increase in the number of unusual patients who made their way through the doors of Terrace Road Veterinary Hospital, Dr Shabeer Bhoola called for greater awareness of the community’s impact on the environment.
This comes after the veterinary hospital recently treated a fish eagle, secretary bird, three juvenile barn owls and most recently an African grass owl (a protected species).
The feathered friends were brought to the veterinary hospital by SA Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre (SAWRC).
Shabeer said the fish eagle and secretary bird both flew into power lines and broke bones in their wings, which needed to be repaired before they could be released.
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The barn owls, which are estimated to be between three and four weeks old, were found in a factory.
Shabeer said the young owls were lucky to be rescued as in some cases they would have been killed because of the misconception surrounding owls.
The grass owl was found by a community member on the road near Daveyton, Benoni, and was taken to Shabeer for examination on May 19.
Through a series of X-rays. it was determined that the owl was in good health.
Shabeer said because there was nothing physically wrong with the grass owl, it may have been resting on the road.
“The owl has subsequently been moved from fluids to soft food, and after metabolising that without issue has been given solid food to eat,” said SAWRC in a Facebook post.
The post further read that the grass owl would be sent to Owl Rescue Centre where it will be monitored until it can be released in a safe location.
Shabeer said since the start of the year, he has treated close to 100 owls and other large birds, excluding smaller wild birds.
He believes this is largely a result of human development in the area.
“If we remember what the area of Greenstone and Stoneridge used to look like 15 years ago, it was all wild and all these animals had space.
“Without this space, although we may not see them, many of these animals are living among us in our neighbourhoods.”
Shabeer understands development is necessary but also believes steps need to be taken to create a balance between progress and nature.
He encouraged community members to use alternatives to rat poisons, such as humane rat traps or other devices that Owl Rescue Centre use.
He said when a bird of prey breaks a wing or is attacked by a pet, it can most likely be saved; however, if the bird consumes a rodent that is poisoned its chances of being saved are lower.
“We are extremely fortunate to have all of these animals around us.”
Shabeer said if community members come across any injured animal, they should immediately get it to a vet and not treat it themselves.
For more information about SA Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and the work they do, visit their Facebook Page.
For more information on alternatives to rat poisons, visit Owl Rescue Centre’s Facebook Page.
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