Eagles’ health problems suspend Auburn’s pregame flights

“Spirit’s health has been up and down for several months after abdominal surgery for small rocks ingested,” said Dr. Timothy Boosinger, AU veterinary dean. “It is in her best interest not to subject her to the stress which could cause more problems.”

Spirit started her pregame flights in mid-season last year, after AU’s golden eagle, Tiger, landed off course before the Vanderbilt game on Sept. 14, 2002. This was attributed to wind-navigation problems created by her arthritic condition. Pregame flights began at Auburn three years ago.

University officials say another factor in the decision is that Spirit has tested positive for Mycoplasma gallisepticum, an organism that was present in some of the 12 birds that died of an infectious disease outbreak at the center during recent months. In July, the raptor center announced it would not accept or release any birds until diagnostic testing is completed on all birds at the center. The organism was not the direct culprit in the deaths, but it opens the door for other diseases, which can kill birds.

“Even though Spirit and Tiger have tested positive, they are active and alert,” said Dr. John Saidla, director of the AU veterinary teaching hospitals. “However, we are not letting any raptors in or out of the center right now.”

AU veterinarians say Mycoplasma gallisepticum is common in birds, but that raptors are now reacting differently to it than other birds, such as chickens.

Wild birds at the center that test negative for the organism will be released at a later date, but ones that test positive are being euthanized. Permanent educational birds housed at the center that test positive will remain isolated and undergo further diagnostic testing.

Twelve birds in the educational collection have died as a result of the outbreak. This includes eight by disease and four by euthanasia. However, 12 healthy birds remain and will be used as a foundation for future educational programs, with more birds to be added later, Dr. Boosinger said. Of the wild birds, 13 have been euthanized, but 22 birds have not been affected.

“I believe future tests will indicate a disease specific to birds of prey,” said Dr. Boosinger, whose specialty is pathology. “Hopefully our testing and research will provide information for the framework that other agencies could use as well.”

Auburn is working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Wildlife Health Laboratory on the problem and it hopes to begin readmitting and releasing birds within six months or less. All birds of prey at the university are housed there by permission of the Fish and Wildlife Service.

“The outbreak has obviously been a concern, but we have a great veterinary program that has treated thousands of birds over the years,” Dr. Boosinger added. “We are looking forward to continuing the center’s mission, which is to conserve birds of prey through proper veterinary care and to give educational opportunities to veterinary students.”

The Southeastern Raptor Rehabilitation Center began in the mid-1970s and it now treats about 500 birds of prey annually from an average of 21 species, including bald eagles, golden eagles, peregrine falcons, great horned owls, red-tailed hawks, and many other species.