Orion - Red-tailed Hawk

An unusual situation brought a red-tailed hawk to the MRP in 2003.  An individual found an injured hawk in Illinois and took the bird to a "non-wildlife" veterinarian.  The vet performed a total amputation on the injured left wing and returned the bird to the individual.  Because it is illegal to keep any bird of prey without a permit and current regulations require euthanasia for birds needing this type of amputation, the hawk was brought to the MRP for evaluation.  Upon reviewing the case, we petitioned to keep the bird due to the extenuating circumstances.

The MRP was awarded a permit to house this hawk and we immediately began working to incorporate "Orion" into our educational programming.  Orion was named after the constellation, because red-tailed hawks are known to be very patient and efficient hunters.  Orion has not only adapted to his injury, but has also become one of our travelling education birds.

Red-tailed Hawks are diurnal raptors, meaning that they are active during the day and sleep at night.  They are about 2 feet tall, have a wing span of 4 feet and they can weigh up to 3 pounds. They are common and widespread throughout North America.

Thank you for supporting Orion the Red-tailed Hawk.