Barn owl flying to freedom

The young barn owl who was brought in recently did well to survive.  She was exhausted and underweight and had an injured foot.  She made it though and and when she was fit, flying and up to weight, we took the decision to release her.   We always release animals and birds back to the wild but getting the timing right is essential.   A fine day and good weather to come gives the bird the best chance.  We find safe land with plenty of cover and food and then we’re set to go.

We have many resident barn owls in the area so we knew our youngster would be with her own species.   Still, it was an anxious moment when we opened the carrying box and gave her the option to go.  Our barn owl friend flew straight off and that was a wonderful sight.   Later that night we heard more owl calls than usual – was she making friends?   We hope so.

Freedom!