Patient of the Week: Eastern PhoebeOur Wildlife Hospital recently admitted this Eastern Phoebe after it sustained a wing injury during the banding process in Cape May. Eastern Phoebe’s spend their breeding season in New Jersey, but migrate short distances to spend winters in more southern regions of the United States and Mexico. Phoebe’s are insectivores and eat a wide variety of insects including wasps, beetles, moths, spiders, ticks, etc. They even eat dragonflies and butterflies!
Bird banding is common in Cape May, as many species of songbirds migrate through there on their way to their wintering grounds. Bird banding is conducted by trained federally permitted banders and the data collected is used to gain more understanding of a species range, lifespan, reproductive success, etc. The data also helps to inform decisions on conservation projects.
This Phoebe sustained a wing sprain but is in recovery in our Wildlife Hospital. After some much needed rest and recuperation we hope for a successful release soon so that he can continue on with his migration!
If you have questions regarding native New Jersey wildlife, please call our Wildlife Hospital at 856-983-3329 ext. 107.
