Indoor Program – Dr. Shary Siksay – Funky Feathered Feet

While most bird talks focus on the obvious – gorgeous plumage, the intricacy of mating calls and dances, and other fascinating aspects of birds’ lives, Dr. Shary Siksay’s lecture will focus on the “funky feathered feet”, going through the morphology, form, and function of avian feet. All types of avian feet will be discussed in terms of their evolution, how they help the species to adapt and survive, and why certain species are susceptible to the specific injuries she sees most often. Time permitting, she will also go through some interesting local and recent cases, including a great horned owl with his head “on upside down” and a poisoned bald eagle.  Dr. Siksay earned her VMD from University of Pennsylvania and works full time as a small animal and exotics veterinarian. Her work includes treating wildlife brought to her by wildlife rehabilitators.