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Apparent fatal snakebite in three hawks.

J O Heckel·D C Sisson·C F Quist
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Abstract

Based on histories and gross and histologic findings, snakebite was diagnosed in three dead raptors submitted for post-mortem examination from northern Florida and southern Georgia (USA). Two immature red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) were found next to dead and partially eaten venomous snakes. An adult Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperii) was found adjacent to a den containing a cotton-mouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus) and an eastern diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus). Gross findings in all birds consisted of hemorrhage and gangrenous necrosis of one limb. Severe muscular degeneration was seen histologically.

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AgkistrodonAnimalsBird DiseasesBirdsCrotalusFatal OutcomeFemaleMuscle, SkeletalSnake BitesCase ReportsJournal ArticleResearch Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

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J O Heckel, D C Sisson, C F Quist. 1994. Apparent fatal snakebite in three hawks.. https://doi.org/10.7589/0090-3558-30.4.616

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