The severity of the arthritis limited much of the mobility of the L leg, and thereby functionality of the “good” foot.
The surprisingly well-healed ulna suggests the bird was grounded for sometime. Perhaps he had been getting by on the leftover bounties of summer, and, as you discovered, was not fairing as well in winter.
All of this explanation is to let you know that, after multiple radiograph angles and great deliberation, the heavy decision was made to humanely euthanize.
I’m sorry it’s not better news; however, I do not think any effort made on this eagle’s part was wasted. His suffering was greatly reduced, and spent his last days warm and fed, and loved.
Thank you again for all your care.
”
Below are my (Kathy Benner) first thoughts upon hearing from Sitka. Jack was a very special bird:
I’m going to write this from the perspective of what Jack was going through. He was a survivor. He is the true hero because through no fault of his own, he was injured and survived long enough to heal. He was able to take advantage of the late salmon run and could obtain food without much effort. But then we had at least two weeks of sub zero temps. Imagine trying to stay warm as your body is failing. Then the snow arrived. Not just a few inches but over 80!!! Imagine trying to maneuver through that with severe arthritis and being malnourished. Add to that being wet and the water freezing and weighing you down.