Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: Great Horned Owl

This Great Horned Owl nestling was found by a concerned finder after they were found on the ground next to a deceased sibling.

In most cases a deceased sibling would warrant this bird coming to us for evaluation. In this case, our Senior Wildlife Education Specialist, Alysa, who is also a permitted rehabilitator, went out to evaluate the baby on site to determine if renesting was possible.

Thankfully, this bird was alert, uninjured, and healthy, so she was able to assist the finders with renesting efforts by creating a makeshift nest out of a hanging planter basket.

The finders were diligent about observing from a distance, where they would not interfere with renesting efforts, and the parents were seen on the nest with the baby multiple times!

The most important evidence of care is of course that the baby continued to appear healthy and alert over the next few days.

A successful reuniting!

Keep this flow chart handy. This time of year many birds are in the nest or fledging. By following this step-by-step guide you will know what to do if you find a baby bird.

If you find a baby wild animal and have concerns, please contact your nearest wildlife rehabilitator right away.

Even if they are unable to directly assist, they can often refer you to those who can, which is what happened here.

Kristi’s Caring Hands Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education was made aware of this baby’s situation and, despite being too far away to assist, Kristi was able to direct the finder to Alysa.

We’re lucky to be in a state that has a vast network of wildlife rehabilitators who know and work with each other to ensure the best outcome for our wildlife!

Looking for an easy way to help native wildlife? Become a monthly BRWC donor! For as little as $5/month, you can provide year-round, sustainable support that helps us fulfill our mission.