On the evening of February 1, a driver observed a Barred Owl hit the windshield of the car in front of her; the driver was able to capture and contain the owl and brought it to the Wildlife Center the next morning, where it was admitted as patient #19-0076.
The veterinary team found that the owl had blood in its mouth, and an eye examination revealed that the owl had a retinal tear and retinal detachment in its left eye. Radiographs didn’t show any fresh fractures or dislocations, though the team noted that the owl had an old, healed fracture of its right ulna. Blood work confirmed that the owl was mildly anemic.
The owl started a course of medicated eye drops to reduce inflammation and pain in the eye. Fortunately, the globe of the bird’s eye did not sustain an injury and did not need to be removed.
On February 14, the owl was moved to a small outdoor enclosure, then was moved to a larger flight pen on February 22. The owl is currently housed in FP4, along with another Barred Owl patient, #19-0022. Keep an eye out for them on Critter Cam!