Canada goose rehabbed by bird sanctuary after being shot with arrow

CASTLE HAYNE, NC (WWAY) — A bird rescue organization in New Hanover County shared a heartwarming reunion online with a warning to the public. 

Skywatch Bird Rescue shared photos on Facebook of a Canada goose that was shot by an arrow. 

Miraculously, they say the bird was still alive and active when he was brought to them. 

The organization rehabilitated the goose and returned him to the pond where he was found. There, the goose was able to reunite with his mate and goslings. Canada geese are known to mate for life. 

The bird sanctuary shared the post with a warning that Canada geese, along with all native birds are protected—and That harming one is a federal crime. 

The organization’s Chief Executive Director Amelia Mason says it’s a miracle that the goose survived. 

“The fact that the arrow did not pierce through an organ or any important parts of the digestive system is just, I mean, the odds are one in a million,” she said. “The disturbing part for me was, on the arrow, it had the name of the brand, and it said ‘junior,’ which most likely indicates that this was a child.” 

Mason says if you see someone harming Canada geese or native birds, you should report it to your county’s animal control, or the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. 

You can report crimes to a wildlife officer using the NCWRC hotline at (800) 662-7137.