ring
Injury did not
ground her spirit.
Gezabelle the red-tailed hawk is one of our
many rehabilitated, non-releasable residents.
A fractured humerus stemming from a fall as
a nestling left this raptor unable to soar long
distances and properly care for herself.
She does have some flying abilities, however,
which required animal care staff to tether her
to a ring while on display during Zoo hours and
move her to an enclosed holding area at night.
Gezabelle had a reputation for being feisty with
her caretakers, often “footing” and charging at
them during each day’s transitions.
In March 2016, we made a commitment to
providing Gezabelle more options. She was
moved to the vulture aviary in La Selva, where
she can choose to perch at varying heights,
interact with other birds, bathe in her water
bowl and more—all without the restriction
of a tether. Gezabelle soon built stronger
relationships with her keepers.
Today, she is a well-adjusted bird
who eagerly participates in training
sessions and public programs.
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