It all started near the Agua Fria riverbed and Happy Valley, behind the Target plaza.

I live in the area.  The expanse of hunting ground is good (screenprint from Google Maps).

Caught on Barbed Wire

I’m a prairie falcon.  I am lighter colored than the peregrine falcon.  I cruise at about 45 mph, at a little over 3 feet off the ground when I’m hunting.  I fly faster when I have found my prey.

Today I was on the hunt and ran into some barbed wire.  Not good news.

I am lucky.  A lady walking her dog found me and called Fallen Feathers.  Jody, their founder came to get me; it helps that she lives only minutes away.  That was also fortunate for me as I was in serious need of medical treatment.   The barbed wire cut me deeply on my leg and stomach.  I have been at Fallen Feathers for two nights resting and healing.  They put this annoying necklace on me so I can’t pick at my stitches.   I don’t know how long I am going to be here, but I do know that next time, I’m shopping somewhere else for my food.

Duke, the prairie falcon

Update:  Unfortunately Duke did not survive the severity of his injuries.

Prairie Falcon