A recent pool party in California ended with a shocking discovery. When the guests gathered around the pool, they had no idea they were about to save an innocent life. However, that was exactly what happened.
It’s quite common for small animals like spiders, frogs, or even snakes, to end up in pool filters. But this time, the discovery was far more startling.
When the guests lifted the filter’s lid, they couldn’t believe their eyes – a huge red-shouldered hawk was trapped inside. The story of how the hawk stuck in the filter was truly unfortunate.
Although beautiful, that day was extremely hot for all living beings. The hawk came to the pool to drink and cool off, but it accidentally fell into the pool.
To be even worse, while in the pool, the poor hawk got sucked into the tiny pool filter, unable to get out.
Fortunately, the party guests quickly discovered the hawk and contacted Sierra Wildlife Rescue (SWR) for further assistance. Inexperienced, the guests put the lid back on, and patiently waited for help.
On the bright side, the rescuers swiftly arrived at the location to save the poor hawk. Debbie Buckles, president of SWR, shared in an interview:
“During the removal of the hawk from the pool filter, he was not responsive, extremely tired and soaking wet.”
The poor hawk was shivering as he had been stuck inside the filter for hours, struggling to survive. Fortunately, the rescuers provided it with instant care and nursed it back to life. Buckles added:
“Using the low speed of a hair dryer and a very gentle touch, each feather was carefully separated and preened. The hawk was able to warm back up and have his feathers restored.”
Over the following days, the rescuers provided the hawk with nutritious food and antibiotics. Gradually, the hawk regained its strength and feisty personality, a sign it was ready to return to the wild.
Two weeks later, the rescuers released the hawk back into its natural habitat. Buckles shared the touching moment:
“As the rescuer put on gloves and held the hawk up towards the sky, he sat for a moment on the glove, taking in the surroundings. Then, the hawk looked into the rescuer’s eyes as though to say thank you, and then took flight.”
Thanks to the pool party guests who found the hawk and got help, and the SWR crew, the hawk returned to its natural habitat, better than ever and ready to take a new chance at life.