Colombian surgeons perform cataract surgery for first time on a merlin

Colombian surgeons perform cataract surgery on a merlin, a small falcon from the Northern Hemisphere, making it the first eye operation of its kind for this specific species in Colombia, according to experts and local authorities. 

Specialists found that the bird's vision was impaired by a corneal ulcer and cataract in its right eye, affecting its ability to fly and survive in the wild. During the next few weeks, it will begin a recovery process that will end in visual recovery and subsequent release of the animal. 

Deputy Environmental Director of the Aburra Valley Metropolitan Area said the surgery is a very positive step as it moves forward with the comprehensive care provided to wildlife and reinforces the commitment, both as an organization and as a region, to protecting all the species they share this land with.