This Western Grebe was brought to Wildlife Images by a Good Samaritan who found it stranded in the middle of a road after a rain.

Clinic staff did a thorough physical examination and found that the Western Grebe was perfectly healthy, although slightly dehydrated. Clinic staff member Lily administered fluids and an anti-parasitic medication before releasing this beautiful waterbird back into the wild.

During this time of year, Western Grebes are migrating to the Pacific Coast after breeding season on the inland. After it rains, these birds will occasionally mistake wet roads and parking lots as bodies of water and land in them. This leaves these birds stranded, because Western Grebes cannot walk on land and need to be in water to be able to take off and fly.

We receive many calls this time of year about stranded Western Grebes with broken legs, when in reality, they are completely healthy and just need to be placed back into the nearest body of water.

Although this Western Grebe became separated from its family during migration season, we are thankful that it was able to be released and hope it will be reunited with its family when it arrives on the Pacific Coast.

If you ever find a stranded Western Grebe or any other wildlife that you think might need help, please call our direct clinic line at 541-441-7193 for advice on what to do. We do not recommend trying to capture a wild animal without first speaking with a clinic staff member for advice on personal protective measures and capture techniques.

Written by Kristie