On May 28, 1999, at Hammonasset State Park in Madison, an osprey trailing kite string was snagged in the trees on the Cedar Island Trail. Birders from Guilford spotted the bird hanging and contacted the park staff for assistance.

Suspended more than thirty feet between two trees, the bird was rescued by Jim Hannon of the Branford River Raptor Center and Charlie Rafford. Hannon and Rafford climbed a ladder that park staff held securely against a tree. The string entangling the osprey was cut from the tree and a net was used to bring the osprey closer to the rescuers. Once the bird was on the ground, the tightly wrapped kite string was carefully cut free. The bird was brought to the Branford River Raptor Center, a federal and state licensed rehabilitation facility.

It is not known how long the bird was suspended, but it was obvious that blood circulation to the left leg and right wing was affected. The extent of the damage from blood loss to the limbs was unknown and after consulting with veterinarians, it was decided to give the bird time in captivity for healing.

Unfortunately, after nearly two weeks of rehabilitation, the osprey showed no signs of improvement and was euthanized.

As with monofilament fishing line, kite string can also be deadly and should be disposed of properly in covered trash receptacles. Kites and helium-filled balloons should never be released into the atmosphere. As this story tells, the consequences can be disastrous.

Written by Karen L. Hannon, Branford River Raptor Center, Inc. for the DEP's Connecticut Wildlife, July/August 1999

If you spot an injured raptor you can contact
the Branford River Raptor Center at 488-2610.

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Last updated 18 September, 2004 .