Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: American Barn Owl

This young Barn Owl was brought to us after being found on the ground.

Fortunately, our examination revealed no injuries, and the owl was bright, alert, and perfectly healthy. It was simply a brancher, a young owl that has left the nest but is not yet a strong flyer.

We always appreciate finders who take the time to have young wildlife evaluated when they are unsure if something is wrong.

While many branchers and fledglings spend time on the ground or perched low as they develop their flight skills, it can be difficult to tell the difference between normal behavior and an injured bird.

A quick examination can provide peace of mind and ensure an animal receives treatment if needed.

Although branchers can make short flights, they are often easier to approach and contain than fully flighted adults.

Seeing a young owl on the ground can certainly be alarming, but in many cases, it is a completely normal part of the fledging process.

One of the most interesting behaviors this youngster displayed is called toe-dusting.

While it may look unusual or even neurological at first glance, this behavior is unique to Barn Owls and is actually a defensive display.

By rapidly moving its feet, spreading its wings, and fluffing up its feathers, the owl attempts to appear larger and more intimidating to potential predators.

The fact that this young owl instinctively knew how and when to perform this display was another reassuring sign that it was healthy and developing normally.

After receiving a clean bill of health and confirming that its parents and siblings were still at the original location, this young Barn Owl was successfully returned home to continue growing up in the wild.

Remember: Not every young bird found on the ground needs rescuing. If the bird appears bright, alert, and uninjured, and its parents are nearby, it may simply be going through the normal fledging process. When in doubt, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator before intervening.

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