Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital and Port Stephens Koala Hospital have partnered in a cross-regional effort to treat, rehabilitate, and release a young injured peregrine falcon, the world’s fastest bird.
In early January, Port Stephens Koala Hospital (PSKH) veterinarian Dr. Tom Tran transported the injured raptor more than 600km to Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital’s newly established Raptor Recovery Centre in Northern NSW. The transfer aimed to ensure the bird received specialized care from veterinarians with expertise in raptor physiology and rehabilitation.
“While we treat a variety of wildlife species, our primary focus is on koalas. Birds of prey require specialized veterinary care, so we had no hesitation in making the journey north for the falcon’s welfare,” PSKH President Ron Land said, emphasising the necessity of relocation.
The falcon sustained a significant injury to its propatagium—the anterior membrane extending from the shoulder to the wrist—likely caused by barbed wire entanglement. Initial treatment at PSKH included surgery to close the wound, which healed successfully. Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital Founder and CEO Stephen Van Mil provided further insight into the bird’s recovery process.
“After a thorough health check, X-rays, and an overnight stay at Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital, the falcon—nicknamed Miss Peregrine—has been gaining strength in the Raptor Recovery Centre’s large aviary. Her recent assessments indicate good health and improved flight capability, and we’re optimistic about a full recovery,” Van Mil said.
The Raptor Recovery Centre is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the long-term rehabilitation of injured birds of prey. Its large round aviaries, exceeding 100 meters in circumference, enable continuous flight—crucial for restoring raptors’ strength before release. The centre operates under the Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital and was made possible through philanthropic contributions.
“This facility is the best of its kind in Australia, providing the optimal environment for raptors to regain their fitness before release,” Land added.
Bree Talbot, General Manager of Veterinary Services at Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital, highlighted the collaborative effort required to rehabilitate wildlife.
“The treatment of a single injured native animal involves significant resources, expertise, and funding. Veterinarians, nurses, and rehabilitators dedicate extensive time and effort to achieve positive welfare outcomes,” Talbot said. “Given that most wildlife injuries result from human activities, we have a responsibility to provide them with the care they need.”
The peregrine falcon, known for its hunting prowess and speeds exceeding 320 km/h, faces threats including habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and illegal hunting. This collaborative rehabilitation effort underscores the vital role of wildlife hospitals and conservation initiatives in safeguarding Australia’s native species.
Image: Forrest Media