Found in the middle of the road, I picked him up and he didn’t react much but no visible injuries nor reactive…in fact he even perched on me after like five minutes of me holding him. Very sweet but maybe needing water or electrolytes or food. If he survives the night (perched in my barn about five feet up and yes there are mice and rats galore for him) then I’ll try to feed and check in more. Just looking for any guidance while keeping under wraps (fish and wildlife are culling barred owls in my area but he seems young and innocent) plus I need the rodent assistance. TIA!!
by That_Branch_8222
7 Comments
As this is not a typically domesticated bird, a local aviary would be my first “go-to” again as a similar situation happened to me back in “15. Wasn’t jumping for joy, but the three hour drive to get them proper care was work it, I got to release her back to the wild a few days later which in turn helped grow my connections to similarly minded “do it ourselves’ers steaders”.
Some indication of where you’re located would help a lot so we could comment with local wildlife rehabs? I know a place that would be perfect for this little critter, but it’s in south western New Hampshire.
Edit: you don’t have to disclose your location, but look up wildlife rescues in your area. They’re this owls best chance.
Depending on your state laws, this *might* be illegal. Not trying to rain on your parade or anything, just letting you know. We had a baby that fell from its nest and was injured, we took it to an approved rehabber and made a donation.
I’m in Texas where specific permits are required, even if you just want to help them survive to return to the wild. Technically it’s illegal to even pick them up, lol.
Bruh
They get hit by cars a lot. If you don’t see it fly then it needs vet care sooner rather than later. Their wings are very hard to repair. I worked for a vet that would rehab them and do wing surgeries. There might be a raptor center or a specialized rehabber or a big rehab at a zoo that would be able to help you.
I did when I worked at the SF zoo. The vet there took them in immediately on a Sunday morning at 6:30 am and two weeks later it was a successful release outcome. Maybe call the zoos in your area and some veterinary sources for specific actions to help.
Your guidance comes from the federal level and it’s clear you do not possess the required permits (or knowledge) to rehabilitate this federally protected species. While your heart is in the right place, you need to find a licensed wildlife rehabilitator who can take on raptors (not all can) as soon as possible.