Against All Odds: Rescued Swainson's Hawks Ready to Soar in Utah

In a remarkable turn of events, two Swainson's hawks are set to return to the wild in Utah, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Enoch Wildlife Rescue.

 

In late June, Dixie Power workers discovered a hawk nest precariously perched atop a power pole transformer—a potential fire hazard.

 

Inside the nest were two eggs, prompting an urgent call to Martin Tyner, co-founder of the nonprofit rescue organization.

 

Recognizing the immediate danger, Tyner instructed the workers to carefully retrieve the eggs and deliver them promptly to the rescue center.

 

Within an hour, the eggs arrived, and Tyner placed them in an incubator, aware of the slim chances of successful hatching.

 

To his surprise, the first egg hatched within two days, followed by the second shortly after.

 

The hatchlings, identified as Swainson's hawks, were fed a natural diet of rodents every two hours, mimicking their wild upbringing.

 

Now fully grown and self-sufficient, the hawks are ready for release.

 

The release is scheduled for Monday at 6 p.m. at the C Overlook above Cedar City, with representatives from Dixie Power expected to attend.

 

Swainson's hawks, named after British naturalist William Swainson, are known for their extensive migrations, traveling as far as Argentina each year.

 

Releasing them now allows time to acclimate before embarking on their journey south.

 

Tyner acknowledges the challenges these young raptors will face, noting that approximately 80% of birds of prey don't survive their first year.

 

However, he remains optimistic, stating, "These have every bit as good a chance as any wild one does."

 

Established in 1997, Enoch Wildlife Rescue has rehabilitated a diverse array of wildlife, from scorpions and tarantulas to hummingbirds and eagles.

 

In 2024, the organization celebrated the opening of a new $800,000 rescue center, enhancing their capacity to care for injured and orphaned animals.

 

Reflecting on the mission, Tyner emphasizes the ethical responsibility to assist wildlife affected by human activities.

 

"Since so many of these have been broken by human contact, it's only the right thing to do to at least attempt to rescue and rehabilitate and release as many back to the wild as you can," he said.

 

As the release date approaches, the community looks forward to witnessing these resilient birds take flight, symbolizing hope and the enduring spirit of Utah's wildlife.