Out on a limb

But Mom, I am too big enough wing it on my own.  (Wildlife Center of Texas image)

Teenagers are simply determined to leave the nest – no matter who made what orders.

Not sure if a sibling is flapping over to help or to step on those fingers trying desperately to hold on. Always wanted to be an only child?

Watch the video and you decide.

There’s a bald eagle resort here. Papa and Mama Webster (eagle video) first claimed the pine tree in 2013 and have returned every year to raise a family.

Recently, while Mama and Papa stepped out for a couple’s flight out (They deserve that, right?), one of this year’s eaglets, Wrangler, decided to do what teenagers, do…slip out.

With disastrous results: the young eagle hit some metal flashing on the way down, then hopped across the yard a bit – instead of flying as she should.

Closely monitored by the home owners and eagle cam by her fine feathered friends, she was not in jeopardy for long. A Texas Parks and Wildlife game warden quickly arrived and carefully gathered up the lovely and transported her to the Wildlife Center of Texas where emergency treatment and x-rays were administered.

Close observation the next day revealed that the eagle had an old/genetic injury in the back and hip area that would make flight difficult.

“Look, I appreciate the lift and snacks, but can I go back to the nest now? They are bound to be wondering. Don’t want to bother with any Amber Alert.” (Wildlife Center of Texas )

But smile!

She’s responding to anti-inflammatory treatment, standing much better and longer, gaining weight, and, best yet, attempting short low flights in her large outdoor flight accommodations.

She’s got all the time she needs to gain strength … and is requesting fresh fish for dinners…she prefers mullet. Lots of mullet.

And numerous local fishermen are glad to assist.

With a little luck and help from her friends, she’ll be ready to step out in style with smiles.

Wonder if Wrangler’s sibling is basking in the extra attention or muttering and spitting feathers with a pair of over protective parents now.

Fish gotta swim and birds gotta fly – but, Eagle Baby, watch out for that first step off that limb – it’s a doozy.

Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge.

• Keep up with Wrangler’s progress (and some really cute orphan animal pictures) on Wildlife Center of Texas Facebook 
• “Helping an influx of wildlife amid the pandemic” Owlets, possums, and red tailed hawk, Oh, my!  (2 videos and news story)

Wrangler getting ready to strut her stuff for her own graduation prom. (Wildlife Center of Texas)