Scribblings

My idea of the best Christmas present ever

Bird TLC education bald eagle “Leuco” has been transferred to the Alaska Zoo!

After 12 years of service as an education bird, Leuco the bald eagle has been transferred from the Bird Treatment and Learning Center to the Alaska Zoo! Among other health issues, Leuco had developed cataracts which made it difficult for him to travel to presentations. We’re happy to report that ophthalmologist Dr. Alan Brightman donated his time to perform surgery on both of Leuco’s eyes, and the cataracts were successfully removed!

About Leuco: In 2003 a fishermen in Valdez noticed a young bald eagle on the ground that appeared to be injured. After much coaxing with fish, the kind fisherman was eventually able to capture the bird and send him to Bird TLC. No significant injuries were found, but it was assumed that the young eagle had suffered a head or neck injury, possibly from falling or being kicked out of the nest before he was able to fly. He was determined to be non-releasable, so the eagle was added to Bird TLC’s education program and was named Leuco (short for the latin name for the bald eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalus). Lovingly cared for over the past 12 years by Bird TLC volunteer Gloria Beckman, Leuco has served his community well, acting as an excellent Bird TLC ambassador eagle and helping to teach thousands of children as well as adults about bald eagles and the habitat in which they live. Needless to say, we’re overjoyed with the wonderful home and quality care that the Alaska Zoo is able to provide for Leuco. Stop by the zoo and tell him hello when you get a chance!

About Dr. Brightman: Dr. Alan Brightman has been a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists for more than 28 years. He served as full professor of ophthalmology at Kansas State College of Veterinary Medicine and specializes in the entire spectrum of medical and surgical ophthalmology of all animal species. He is the author of more than 90 publications, has 28 years of clinical experience, and has pioneered a number of surgical procedures. Bird TLC will be forever grateful to Dr. Brightman for restoring Leuco’s eyesight, thank you Doctor!