On November 17, a rescuer found a young Barn Own by the side of the road in Rockingham County. Suspecting that the owl was hit by a vehicle, the rescuer was able to contain the owl and transported it to the Wildlife Center for treatment.
The female owl, admitted as patient #19-3223, did not appear to have any obvious impact injuries, but the veterinary team found that the bird was very thin, dehydrated, and weak. Several days later, another fledgling Barn Owl was found in the same area – likely a sibling to Barn Owl #19-3223. Unfortunately, the second owl admitted was even more emaciated and did not survive.
The staff gave fluids to Barn Owl #19-3223 and set her up in a crate in the Center’s holding room for careful observation. Food was slowly introduced, and the owl began readily eating on her own. Several days later, she was much brighter and more alert, and was moved to an outdoor holding area for additional observation. On November 26, the owl was moved to a C-pen.
As long as the owl keeps eating and gaining weight, the staff hope she’ll make a full recovery and will be able to be released this winter.