Presumptive electric cataracts in a Great Horned owl (Bubo virginianus) |
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Authors: | D. Dustin Dees Nicole E. MacLaren |
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Affiliation: | Eye Care for Animals, 1021 E. 3300 S., Salt Lake City, UT 84106, USA |
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Abstract: | This case report describes suspected electrocution in a juvenile female Great Horned owl (Bubo virginianus) with subsequent bilateral cataract formation. The bird flew into a high‐voltage power line and was immediately rescued. Burn wounds of the head and ataxia with apparent blindness were noted. Initial ophthalmic examination 5 days after the incident revealed bilaterally symmetrical anterior subcapsular vacuolar cataracts with absence of intraocular inflammation and a predominantly clear view to the normal appearing fundus. The bird appeared to be nonvisual. No ophthalmic medications were prescribed at initial examination. Subsequent recheck examination at 8 weeks revealed moderate resolution of the cataracts and improved vision. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first published report of suspected electric cataracts in an avian species. |
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Keywords: |
Bubo virginianus
cataracts electrocution Great Horned owl |
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