When AI meets wildlife rescue: a common kestrel’s second chance

The platform also reminded the rescuer that raptors in China are nationally protected species, and that capturing or keeping them without authorisation is illegal. The safest, most responsible option was clear: contact licensed wildlife professionals right away.

It then listed emergency contacts in Beijing, recommending the IFAW Beijing Raptor Rescue Center (BRRC) first.

By the following day, common kestrel #260204 was safely in our care, the first admission our team has seen that was guided to us through an AI search.

Our rehabilitators recorded the kestrel's weight at 180 grams, with a keel score of 4.0, indicating it was not underweight. Adhesive residue coated sections of its feathers, and there was visible wear from struggling to free itself. Fortunately, no fractures were detected.

The team noted a minor injury to the cere and a slight abnormality in the fourth toe on the left foot, which affected posture but not severely. Overall, the bird presented as depressed, weak, and mildly dehydrated.

Fluids were administered immediately to stabilise its condition. Because the kestrel's body weight was adequate, the team opted for careful monitoring rather than force-feeding when it didn't eat right away. Blood tests the following day returned normal results. With the bird still low in energy, our veterinarians administered meloxicam to ease inflammation and discomfort, while continuing close observation.