Imperial eagle receives prosthetic limb after injury in Kythira

A rare imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca) has undergone a pioneering medical procedure involving the implantation of a customized implant and a prosthetic limb. The young female eagle was discovered injured on the island of Kythira and was brought to the ANIMA Wildlife Protection and Care Association on November 20, 2025.

Following consultations with the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital and veterinarians in London and Bulgaria, medical professionals determined that the eagle's right tarsus required amputation due to a severe, open, comminuted intra-articular fracture. To prevent chronic pain, the limb was removed, followed by a series of three surgeries over three months to install a personalized implant and an external prosthetic limb designed to restore functionality.

The procedure has shown promising results, with the wound healing quickly and without complications. The eagle is currently undergoing intensive physiotherapy to combat potential muscle atrophy in the affected area. The expertise gained from this case is expected to serve as a pilot for future similar wildlife rehabilitation efforts.