Texas State Aquarium Released Rehabilitated Great Blue Heron into the Wild

CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS – On Tuesday, May 2, the Texas State Aquarium’s Second Chances Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital released a rehabilitated great blue heron back into its natural habitat at Port Aransas Nature Preserve in Port Aransas, Texas.

The great blue heron was brought to the Second Chances hospital in March by members of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The bird had suffered fractures in its coracoid and clavicle, two bones necessary for a bird to be able to fly.  Second Chances veterinary staff performed surgery on the heron in addition to other medical procedures, allowing it to gradually recover from its injuries. After more than a month of additional treatment and rehabilitation, the great blue heron regained its ability to fly and has been declared ready to return to its natural environment.

“This bird’s release is yet another success story for the Second Chances program,” said Manager of Wildlife Rehabilitation Laura Martinelli. “Without help, this bird may have died, but thanks to the tireless dedication of our Second Chances rescuers, this great blue heron has been given another lease on life.”

Second Chances relies on the public for donations and information to help local wildlife.  If you find an injured or entangled animal, contact the Second Chances Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital immediately at (361) 881-1210. To donate to the Second Chances program and help with the rescue and rehabilitation of other shorebirds, raptors, marine mammals, and sea turtles, visit texasstateaquarium.org/giveback.

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