Academy protects falcons from West Nile

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Adrianne Traxinger
  • Air Force Print News
SAN ANTONIO --  After seven magpies were found dead on campus from West Nile virus, officials at the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo., began vaccinations around campus. The vaccinations are not for cadets, though. They are for the 11 falcons that represent the academy.

With the virus confirmed in the area, the mascots are at risk.

“If we don’t take precautions, they will probably become infected,” said Lt. Col. Steve Niehoff, director of falconry at the academy.

To protect the birds, officials gave them an equine version of a West Nile vaccine. Although it is meant for horses, officials say it helps.

“It is not extremely effective in birds, but we felt any protection was better than none,” Niehoff said.

They also spray the falcons with insect repellent and keep a close eye on them while they are outside to minimize their risk for mosquito bites. And when they are not training outside, the birds stay in their winter quarters -- indoors.

The academy’s falconry program has four different species of birds: five peregrine falcons, three prairie falcons, two gyr falcons and one American kestrel. With all the training the rare birds receive, they are an investment.

“We value our falcons at approximately $1 million,” Niehoff said.

Until mosquito season is finished around the end of September, officials and falconers will keep a close eye on the birds, looking for any signs of infection.

“Birds may become depressed, listless or stop eating. Neurological symptoms may be evident -- staggering, head tilt,” he said. “There is no specific treatment, only symptomatic treatment can be given to keep the bird alive until its body can overcome the virus.”

Looking toward next year, it is too early to create a plan for the birds.

“One thing at a time,” Niehoff said. “Prior to next year’s mosquito season, we will evaluate what vaccines are available and determine the best course of action.”