San Diego Humane Society Treated Two Shot Hawks
Veterinarians cared for two raptors suffering from gunshot wounds in separate incidents.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Birds
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The San Diego Humane Society treated two hawks for gunshot injuries discovered in September 2026. One bird died during treatment while the other underwent surgery.
Why it matters
The incidents highlight the ongoing threats to local birds of prey, which are protected under federal statutes like the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Illegal shooting of these raptors remains a serious concern for wildlife conservationists.
One red-shouldered hawk sustained two pellet wounds and lead poisoning, while one red-tailed hawk suffered a single gunshot wound. These represent the total number of confirmed raptor shooting cases reported by the facility in this period.
The players
San Diego Humane Society
This organization manages animal welfare and operates wildlife rescue and rehabilitation services in the San Diego region.
Desert Wildlife Center
This facility specializes in the triage and medical care of injured wildlife in the desert region.
The details
A red-shouldered hawk found in the Encanto neighborhood died under anesthesia due to its injuries. Meanwhile, a red-tailed hawk initially triaged at the Desert Wildlife Center in Indio successfully underwent orthopedic surgery.
Timeline
September 10, 2026: The red-tailed hawk arrived at the Desert Wildlife Center.
September 22, 2026: The red-shouldered hawk was found in the Encanto neighborhood.
October 13, 2026: The San Diego Humane Society reported the cases.
Culture Shift
The illegal shooting of raptors contradicts the conservation framework established by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. These incidents mark a departure from local efforts to safely coexist with protected birds of prey in urban environments.
Residents in the Encanto area and surrounding regions are encouraged to report suspicious activity involving wildlife to local authorities. Observing protected raptors from a distance helps ensure they remain undisturbed in their natural habitats.
The takeaway
Wildlife organizations emphasize that most raptor shooting cases are preventable through increased public awareness of federal protections. Reporting injured birds immediately is the most effective way to provide them a chance at survival.
Further reading
Learn more about local raptor species and advocacy at San Diego Birds.
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Should communities prioritize human solutions to wildlife concerns over lethal methods?
