When Jody took her dog for a traditional walk across the Enola Low-Grade Trail in Pennsylvania, she thought it would be an ordinary outing. However, while passing by the forest, her dog suddenly became agitated and began pulling her toward a spot covered with leaves. Sensing something was wrong, Jody approached and was shocked to find a mysterious animal lying motionless in the leaves, camouflaged to the point that she couldn’t identify it at first.
A Nasty Accident
Upon closer inspection, Jody realized the animal was a great horned owl. Knowing little about owls, she decided to photograph it and send the image to the Raven Ridge Wildlife Center for assistance. The center confirmed it was indeed an owl, noting the rarity of encountering one in such poor condition.
“It is always a red flag when an owl is found grounded and fails to fly away when approached, especially when it’s in the middle of the day,” the center stated in a Facebook post.
Understanding the urgency, the volunteers quickly responded and arrived at the scene to rescue the owl. When they conducted a thorough examination, they received grim news: “she couldn’t stand, was shivering, couldn’t open an eye, was falling over, cold, dehydrated, and dazed.”
They promptly initiated emergency care and monitored her condition closely. The situation was dire, yet they held on to hope. Interestingly, the cause of her distress was bizarre: there were suspicions that she had been sprayed in the face by a skunk.
Back Where She Belongs
Despite the traumatic experience and challenging rehabilitation, this resilient owl emerged victorious. Raven Ridge Wildlife Center expressed their excitement, stating: “We are thrilled to share with you the remarkable transformation this owl has made! THANK YOU to everyone sending prayers and healing thoughts her way,” in a Facebook post, a little over a month after her rescue. The recovery process wasn’t easy, but it was worthwhile as they witnessed her stunning transformation.
Eventually, the second phase of her recovery began, which was easier but pivotal for her return to the wild. This moment arrived quickly, as the Raven Ridge Wildlife Center updated their Facebook page shortly after the New Year, announcing her complete recovery.
“What a way to start the NEW YEAR with our first release of 2024! The owl has made a complete recovery and is back home where she belongs.”
Though grateful for the help she received, this great horned owl wasted no time taking flight into the nearby trees as soon as she realized she was back where she belonged. It was the call of freedom she simply couldn’t resist.
