This month, the von Arx Wildlife Hospital admitted 60 animals and 23 patients were successfully released back into the wild. With spring underway, baby raptor season has officially begun. The wildlife hospital has already cared for two young Great Horned Owlets that fell from their nests.
The first Great Horned Owlet was discovered on the ground beneath a tree. The concerned rescuer contacted the von Arx Wildlife Hospital and the rehabilitation staff advised bringing the owlet in for evaluation to rule out any injuries from the fall.
Upon intake, the owlet was alert and active, though it was clear it had taken a tumble from the nest. When young birds are admitted, the hospital’s primary goal is to return them to their nest as quickly as possible. It is critical for young birds to be raised by their parents in order to prevent habituation to humans and to ensure they develop essential survival skills such as hunting prey.
While the rehabilitation staff stabilized and assessed the owlet, one of our volunteers who is experienced in birding was sent out to locate the nest and/or parents. No adults were spotted during the initial search; but the volunteer returned the following morning and successfully identified a parent nearby. However, despite confirming parental presence, no intact nest could be located. There were only scattered limbs which suggested that the original nest may have fallen.
After 24 hours of stabilization and supportive care, the hospital’s veterinarian performed a sedated exam and medically cleared the owlet for renesting. With permission from the property owner and the assistance of our partner, Homegrown Tree Care LLC, a new basket nest was installed high in the tree. The owlet was carefully placed inside while a volunteer monitored from below.
Unfortunately, after 24 hours, there were no signs of the parents returning to the new nest. Concerned for the owlet’s wellbeing, staff made the difficult decision to bring the owlet back into hospital care.
Given the owlet’s young age and vulnerability to habituation, the team determined that long-term success would require placement with a surrogate owl to ensure proper development. Staff reached out to the Avian Reconditioning Center and the staff there agreed to accept the owlet into their care. At ARC, the young owl will be raised alongside other owlets under the guidance of a surrogate Great Horned Owl, learning critical skills such as hunting live prey. Thanks to our partnership with ARC this owlet now has the best possible chance at a successful release back into the wild.
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Great Horned Owlet 2
The second Great Horned Owlet admitted this month had a similar beginning but a very different ending. This owlet was found at the base of a tree by a homeowner in Highland Woods Golf and Country Club and brought directly to the wildlife hospital. A full examination revealed no injuries, though the owlet was kept overnight to monitor for internal injuries.
Rehabilitation staff immediately began coordinating with the homeowner and Steve Jarrett, Golf Course Superintendent at Highland Woods, to locate the nest and parents. Both parents were successfully identified thanks to their help. Once again, Homegrown Tree Care, LLC stepped in to assist with the renesting efforts.
The following day, Wildlife Rehab Specialist Erika Summers transported the owlet back to the site. The rehab staff and the tree care professionals determined that the original nest was unstable. To ensure safety, a basket was installed and the original nesting materials were placed inside.
During this process, there was a second sibling and leftover prey in the original nest which showed clear signs that the parents were actively caring for their young. Throughout the effort, the adult owls watched closely from a nearby tree. The owlet was successfully renested, and the homeowner and golf course superintendent are continuing to monitor the site.
While every patient’s story is unique, one thing remains constant. The work of the von Arx Wildlife Hospital would not be possible without the support of our community. From concerned residents who find and report wildlife in need, to dedicated volunteers and local partners who donate their time and expertise, each successful outcome is a shared win.
As baby raptor season continues, please support some of our youngest patients if you can! We have a Chewy Wishlist, Amazon Wishlist and most need common items listed on our website.