Citation

Khan MA, Farid M, Sobani ZA, Ali SN, Malick H, Baqir M, Sharif H, Beg MA. Asian Pac. J. Trop. Biomed. 2011; 1(2): 166-168.

Affiliation

Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Trust, Selly Oak Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Asian Pacific Tropical Biomedical Publishing, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/S2221-1691(11)60019-1

PMID

23569751

Abstract

Many species have been drastically affected by rapid urbanization. Harris's hawks from their natural habitat of open spaces and a supply of rodents, lizards and other small prey have been forced to change their natural environment adapting to living in open spaces in sub- and peri-urban areas. Specific areas include playgrounds, parks and school courtyards. The migration of this predatory species into these areas poses a risk to individuals, and especially the children are often attacked by claws, talons and beaks intentionally or as collateral damage while attacking rodent prey. In addition, the diverse micro-organisms harbored in the beaks and talons can result in wound infections, presenting a challenge to clinical management. Here we would like to present a case of an 80-year-old man with cellulitis of both hands after sustaining minor injuries from the talons of a Harris's hawk and review the management options. We would also like to draw attention to the matter that, even though previously a rarity, more cases of injuries caused by birds of prey may be seen in hospital settings.

Language: en