10/17/2026
A bird feeder mishap brought us one very tiny patient. 🐦💚
This little bird was found with a leg trapped in a bird feeder, leaving them with a serious injury. They were carefully freed and brought in to see if there was anything we could do.
Dr. Lee examined the injury and determined that the damaged leg could not be saved and needed to be amputated. Fortunately, losing a leg didn't mean losing this little bird's chance to return to the wild. Birds can be remarkably adaptable, and this patient could still fly, eat, perch, and keep up with their flock.
After surgery, they spent the night with us recovering, eating, drinking, and quickly figuring out their new normal.
By the next morning, they were already adapting incredibly well and were able to return outside to stretch their wings. 💚
If you find an injured or wild bird, please contact the Ruth Melichar Bird Center at (208) 338-0897 for guidance before transporting them. For other injured or orphaned wildlife, the Animals in Distress Association can help connect you with the appropriate resource at (208) 367-1026. Animals In Distress Association & Ruth Melichar Bird Center
And if you happen to spot our remarkable one-legged friend around Boise, please tell them their team at Habitat is rooting for them. 🥹💚
