We have already received our first patient! On Tuesday, August 12th, 2025, we were alerted by the Sullivan County, TN Sheriff's Office of an injured juvenile red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) located in the median of Moreland Drive in Kingsport, TN, unable to fly away. While we won’t ever know the exact reason for this bird’s injuries, it’s highly likely they were due to a vehicle collision. We were able to instruct the sheriff’s deputy on how to safely intervene until we were able to respond. He and a member of the community were successful in capturing the injured bird and our team was able to transport them to Owl Ridge. This young red-tailed hawk had extensive wounds on both legs, with a lot of fly and maggot activity. However, after some cleaning up and medication, the bird seems to be doing much better. While this bird still has a long way to go before it will be eligible for release, we are thankful to have played a role in their recovery. The rescued bird is pictured here looking bright eyed after receiving much needed care from Owl Ridge Raptor Center. While this bird has survived and is healing comfortably, it is a stark reminder of the dangers the bird face in the wild. You can do your part to prevent vehicle collisions by not littering! Often, litter lures prey animals, such as rodents, to the side of the road — this attracts predators such as hawks, falcons, owls, and more leading to dangerous road crossings in pursuit of prey!

Image courtesy of Lisa Thomison, Owl Ridge Raptor Center