REGINA — A falcon protected under federal law and Saskatchewan's Wildlife Act was shot recently in Regina, and the incident has been reported to conservation officers.
Salthaven West Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre says an injured merlin was found grounded in a busy area of south Regina recently and brought into their care. A small circular wound was observed and their fears were confirmed when X-rays confirmed the bird had been shot.
"After consulting with our veterinary team, it was determined that the merlin had suffered severe and irreparable spinal damage. With no chance of recovery and to prevent further suffering, the kindest option was humane euthanasia," states Salthaven West in a Facebook post.
Sadly, this is not an isolated case, says Salthaven West. Every year, they receive dozens of animals that have been shot.
The rehab centre points out, "These birds play a vital role in our ecosystems. They deserve respect, safety, and protection, not violence. If you ever encounter injured wildlife, please contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. And if you witness harm to wildlife, report it."
Salthaven West regularly shares stories of the animals that come to them.
"This merlin’s life mattered, and we will continue to stand up for wildlife and tell their stories, even when they are difficult to share."
As migratory birds, merlins are protected under the federal Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994, which makes it illegal to kill, harm, capture, possess, or disturb them — as well as their nests and eggs — without authorization.
They are also protected provincially as wildlife under Saskatchewan’s Wildlife Act, 1998.
