A migratory hawk believed to have travelled from Brussels, Belgium, to Ghana has died after being rescued in Assin North in the Central Region.
The bird, found wounded on a farm at Assin Breku Kwame Ankra, is expected to undergo an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
The rescue was a collaborative effort between the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) in Assin North and a local farmer, Ebenezer Lativi, who first spotted the injured bird on his farm.
Speaking to Adom News, Assin North Deputy NADMO Director, Elisher Sarpong, said the hawk had visible injuries on both wings, suggesting it may have suffered gunshot wounds or another form of severe attack.
According to Mr. Lativi, he noticed bloodstains on leaves on his farm, which prompted a search of the area, where he discovered the bird bleeding profusely with a metal ring fastened around one leg.
The ring bore the inscription “BRUSSELS,” an identification code H220252, and details linked to the Brussels Museum of Natural Sciences, along with the website www.ring.ac, indicating the bird was part of a scientific migratory tracking programme.
After being discovered, the hawk was first taken to the Assin North Veterinary Office for medical attention before being transferred to the Kumasi Zoo for further care. Unfortunately, the bird later died while under care.
NADMO officials said an autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death and establish whether the injuries were caused by human activity or other factors.
The incident sparked widespread shock and curiosity within the community. While some residents speculated about the bird’s purpose in Ghana, others made unverified claims about its mission.
Mr. Sarpong assured the public that the investigation would be conducted professionally, and findings from the autopsy will be made public once available.
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