UGA researchers use echocardiography to improve care for Georgia’s native birds of prey
Barred owls are native to Georgia and present throughout the year. These nocturnal birds of prey are recognized by their brown, gray, and white plumage, with horizontal barring on the chin and vertical barring on the breast and belly. As important predators, barred owls play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling prey populations, particularly in woodland and forest environments.
As human activity continues to encroach on previously undisturbed habitats, wildlife-human interactions have increased in frequency. This shift has led to a growing need for veterinary involvement in the care and management of sick or injured wildlife presented to veterinary hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Barred owls are commonly admitted for treatment due to injuries that impair their ability to fly, and some of these birds also present with suspected cardiovascular concerns.
To address this need, the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine is conducting a study focused on cardiac health in barred owls. The field of avian cardiology continues to expand, with much of the existing knowledge derived from production poultry and companion avian species. However, wildlife cardiology remains in its early stages, and limited research exists on birds of prey. Raptors possess cardiovascular systems that differ significantly from other avian species, including higher metabolic rates, smaller heart mass-to-body ratios, and higher resting blood pressure. Additionally, owls are phylogenetically distinct from other bird orders, meaning previously published data on other avian species is not fully applicable to their care.
The study aims to assess the feasibility of echocardiography in evaluating cardiac anatomy, function, and hemodynamics in healthy barred owls. Researchers are also working to measure standard echocardiographic variables and establish baseline reference intervals, which may improve diagnostic capabilities and inform future treatment strategies for injured or ill birds.
All owls participating in the study are cared for collaboratively by the Zoo Medicine and Cardiology services at the UGA Veterinary Teaching Hospital. When their injuries are manageable, the birds receive treatment and are transferred to wildlife rehabilitation facilities with the goal of eventual release back into their natural habitats.
Through this research, the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine seeks to advance understanding of cardiovascular health in wildlife species while improving standards of care for injured birds of prey. The findings may contribute to enhanced rehabilitation outcomes and support ongoing efforts to preserve Georgia’s native wildlife populations.
