Raptor medicine: Basic principles and noninfectious conditions

An understanding of the biology, physiology, and anatomy of raptors as well as how to medically approach birds of prey is imperative for providing qua lity care. The two most common clinical diagnoses of free-ranging raptors a re trauma-usually with ocular and/or orthopedic involvement-and toxicoses. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and lead poisoning account for the majority of acute toxicities. Treatment of these intoxicated patients can be reward ing if practitioners apply fast, aggressive therapy while pursuing diagnost ics.