Mr Flapper Duck

This is a sample image from Google Earth of some migratory birds that are tracked by satellite. Endangered birds are captured and implanted with transmitters to help biologists learn about their migration patterns, health and more.

When I learned that the Canada goose we rescued over the weekend unfortunately could not be saved and rehabilitated, the vet told me the goose might be able to help teach him something before she died yesterday. (When the vet is not working in Seattle, he works to bring better care and innovation to how transmitters are implanted in birds in Alaska, and this goose could help him do that.) I thought about it, and decided that it would be okay.

The Canada goose with the wing beyond repair was put under deep anesthesia to ensure she didn’t feel any pain. Then before she was euthanized, the vet was able to put a fake transmitter in place and take pictures of the procedure to train others to do it better. But instead of waking the goose up from surgery like he’d do with other birds, he injected the goose with the euthanizing drugs and she passed away quietly and smoothly.

Here’s a note from the vet:

“It was a great exercise and I really appreciate your willingness to let me do this. The staff training alone should help others while the rest of it may help the birds we implant in the field. Thank you!!!”

So the Canada goose with such a strong spirit has passed on, but she was able to help other birds before she passed. I know it was not her decision to make, and I made it for her… but I really think she would have liked the idea of doing all she could for other birds.

I hope you agree.

Thank you, Canada goose.