Dayna Slater, the founder of Good Caws Crow Rescue in Prince George, B.C., is amazed by a crow named Riven who has evaded capture despite having half of her face ripped off. Riven, whose lower beak was hanging off, caught the attention of volunteers in early March. Efforts were made to lure Riven with food for potential repair and rehabilitation, but she proved elusive.
Although Riven’s broken beak is still hanging and may soon fall off, recent videos show her adapting by using the remaining nub to scoop and tilt her head for food consumption. Slater noted that Riven’s feathers are in good condition, suggesting she has learned to preen or her family is preening her.
Slater emphasized the importance of preening for feather maintenance, crucial for waterproofing and flight. The rescue will monitor Riven to ensure her well-being, especially as fall and winter approach. Despite the challenges, Slater finds Riven’s resilience impressive, highlighting that humans would require extensive medical care and recovery for such an injury.
