A Burnaby tree-removal company played a key role in rescuing an injured hawk last week.
On Aug. 31, a hiker spotted a red-tailed hawk hanging upside down in a tree in Froggers Creek Ravine Park. The hawk's leg was stuck on a branch, and the bird was crying out.
The hiker called the SPCA, which in turn called ABC Tree Men, a local tree removal company, and the Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C.
ABC Tree Men workers arrived, and one climbed the tree, covered the bird in a blanket, and dislodged the leg, while a coworker gave directions from below.
The Wildlife Rescue Association took the hawk to the Burnaby Lake rehabilitation centre, where it's expected to make a full recovery. The association was thankful ABC Tree Men stepped in.
"The hawk is a large bird, and it was a stressful situation," said spokesperson Yolanda Brooks. "Their arborist had to carry out a tricky manoeuvre to circle the tree and capture it from above, while avoiding further injury or upset to the bird."
For Jozef Klimo, rescuing hawks is all in a day's work. The owner of ABC Tree Men said his company often receives call to help save wildlife and cats.
"I kind of feel like it's my hobby, too, when you rescue some bird," Klimo told the NOW. "If we can help we are really happy to (offer) our service."
ABC Tree Men still charges for wildlife removal work but offers a discount.
