Meet RoboDuck: Duck's Bill Repaired with Wire Mesh

by
posted on July 19, 2012
dogs_ah2015_fs.jpg (18)

The injury was horrific—when the mallard was rescued by a local New Zealand SPCA, the lower half of its bill was completely torn off and broken, leaving its tongue dangling through a hole under its chin.

Check out the incredible photos here and here.

The initial bid to reattach the bill failed, as did four ensuing attempts, but an ingenious medical staff wouldn't give up. On the sixth try, they used 3mm steel wire mesh to reconstruct and attach the duck's bill—success! The duck is eating, putting on weight and, according to observers, acting "feisty."

The operations cost several hundred dollars, which may seem like a lot of money to save one mallard given that it's the world most populous and widespread species; however, a member of the medical staff says that view misses the big picture. This new medical procedure could be used to save injured birds belonging to populations that aren't doing so well.

"For example, if we had a brown teal, an endangered bird, with a similar injury, this is something we could do," said Craig Shepherd, spokesman for the Wellington Bird Rehabilitation Trust.

"If he hadn't been such a fighter and so feisty, we probably would've considered euthanasia," Shepherd said.

Latest

Hunter In Snow
Hunter In Snow

Know How: Walking-Up Winter Rabbits

Bryce Towsley offers his readers some tips and tricks on wintertime rabbit hunting.

Member's Hunt: "The Big Rifle," Winchester Model 1895

This latest Member's Hunt comes from Ken Eason of Bethany, Okla.

First Look: Blocker Outdoors’ Finisher Pro II Turkey Vest

Blocker Outdoors has introduced its Finisher Pro II Turkey Vest, to help hunters concisely and comfortably manage essential hunting tools.

Recipe: Hunter's Onion Soup

Follow along as Brad Fenson explains the ancient origins and his specific take on this hearty dish.

Henry Repeating Arms CEO Honors IHEA’s NY State Instructor of the Year

Henry Repeating Arms Founder and CEO Anthony Imperato recently honored Ralf Hartmann as the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) New York State Instructor of the Year, recognizing his contributions to hunter education and firearm safety.

Rebates Galore for Turkey Hunters

Remington Ammunition recently announced its Beards, Spurs, and Savings rebate, which offers consumers the chance to buy Remington Turkey shotshell ammunition and get up to $100 back. The promotion runs through May 31, 2025.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.