Flamingo to Soar Again with Prosthetic Leg After Amputation

Quick Summary:

• A Greater flamingo,found injured in Navi Mumbai’s NRI wetland,had its left leg amputated after likely getting entangled in a fishing net or nylon line.
• A prosthetic leg was successfully fitted too the bird by Makarand Saraf of the All India Institute of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and his team.
• The artificial limb helps the flamingo walk but not fly. The team is now working on an upgraded prosthesis that can enable flight.
• After initial treatment,the bird was released into wetlands but remained near the same area,prompting further efforts to improve its mobility with a lightweight and durable prosthesis made from carbon fiber and acrylic resin materials.
• The project involved collaboration with companies like Otto Bock Healthcare India Pvt Ltd for fabrication and Podiapro India Pvt Ltd for inner lining material support.
• By July 19, it was confirmed that there were no fitment or skin issues observed with the artificial limb.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
This initiative underscores India’s growing capability in wildlife rehabilitation through technology-led innovation and collaboration between experts and corporates. such interventions also spotlight pressing environmental concerns like unchecked fishing activities posing hazards to migratory birds. While this breakthrough marks important progress in animal welfare efforts, additional emphasis on conservation measures is necessary to prevent similar incidents from occurring in future. Moreover, if prosperous modifications enable flight restoration for this flamingo, it could pave the way for pioneering advancements in avian prosthetics globally.Read More