Saving over 11,500 birds annually: The remarkable ‘falcon whisperer’ of the UAE

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital: Caring for 11,500 Birds a Year

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, the largest facility of its kind in the world, is home to Dr. Margit Muller, a renowned veterinarian and the executive director of the hospital. With over 22 years of experience, Dr. Muller has dedicated her career to nurturing and healing falcons, nursing over 11,500 of these magnificent birds back to health each year.

Originally from Germany, Dr. Muller joined the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital in 2001 when it consisted of just 20 employees. Today, she leads a team of 140 staff members, overseeing the hospital’s operations, laboratory, pet care center, and animal shelter.

Known as the “falcon whisperer,” Dr. Muller has a unique ability to understand and communicate with falcons. She describes it as a kind of intuition, being able to sense when a falcon is sick or in need of help. This intuition has earned her widespread recognition and respect in the field.

Dr. Muller’s work involves treating falcons on a daily basis, as well as managing the Abu Dhabi Animal Center for rescue cats and dogs. She also oversees VIP visits to the hospital, which has become a popular tourism destination in Abu Dhabi.

In 2008, Dr. Muller’s contributions to falcon medicine were recognized when she received the Abu Dhabi Award from Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the highest civilian honor in Abu Dhabi. She was credited with discovering two new diseases in falcons and developing effective treatments for them.

Over the years, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital has welcomed numerous high-profile visitors, including former US President George W. Bush and Queen Camilla. These visits provide an opportunity to share the hospital’s mission and cultural heritage with esteemed guests.

While working with falcons can be challenging, Dr. Muller finds it incredibly rewarding. Falcons, despite their majestic appearance, are delicate and sensitive creatures. As a veterinary surgeon, Dr. Muller must be fast and accurate in diagnosing and treating their ailments.

Contrary to popular belief, falcons are not all the same. Each falcon has its own unique personality, just like humans. Dr. Muller has developed a deep understanding of their behavior and knows how to manage them effectively.

Dr. Muller’s dedication to her work is exemplified by a memorable case involving a Peregrine falcon that was severely injured. Despite the odds being against her, Dr. Muller performed a successful surgery, saving the falcon’s life. The bird’s owner was incredibly moved and grateful for the remarkable recovery.

Outside of her work as a veterinarian, Dr. Muller is also a certified life and mental health coach. She believes in using her intuition and skills to help both animals and people. For her, the impact she has on the lives of others is the true measure of success.

The incredible work being done at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital by Dr. Margit Muller and her team has made it a global pioneer in falcon medicine and conservation. Through their efforts, thousands of falcons are given a second chance at life and the opportunity to soar once again.

Saving over 11,500 birds annually: Meet the UAE’s renowned falcon whisperer