Original Source
Black-winged Kite Euthanized After Rehabilitation at Kadoorie Farm
Rescue and Treatment of the Black-winged Kite
A Black-winged Kite was rescued in August 2025 from Tai Po Lam Tsuen and brought to Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden's Wild Animal Rescue Centre in Hong Kong. The bird exhibited an abnormal breathing pattern, indicating reduced flight capability for a raptor. Wen Nuo Wen, Senior Wild Animal Rehabilitation Manager at the center, suspected irreversible lung damage and administered nebulizer treatment, including antibiotics. The bird adapted well to the artificial environment, showing good appetite, and positive responses to treatment.
Training and Euthanasia Decision
Wen Nuo Wen conducted flight exercises in a training cage to assess the Black-winged Kite's flight ability. However, the bird displayed asymmetrical flight, with its left wing dropping during flight. After 10 days of training, its respiratory problems worsened. Medical staff confirmed that the bird had irreversible damage to its respiratory system and impaired flight capabilities. Consequently, Kadoorie Farm decided to euthanize the Black-winged Kite to alleviate its suffering. Wen Nuo Wen emphasized that the focus should be on the animal's quality of life without pain, rather than mere survival, highlighting the importance of education to prevent harm to wildlife.
*Source: YouTube: RTHK (2026-03-27)*
