A follow up to this story from last October:

From Raven Ridge Wildlife Center

In early October 2024, we rescued a Short-eared Owl who had been found injured by a kind farmer in his field. A volunteer sprang into action to retrieve the owl amidst the busy harvest.

Upon examination, we discovered that this delicate creature had a broken right wing. Treating such a small bird presents unique challenges, especially since the severity and location of the break play a vital role in its recovery process.

With strong determination, Dr. Libby and Dr. Parson conducted multiple X-rays and prepared for a complex surgery. Although they recognized the hurdles ahead, they remained hopeful and resilient, focused on giving this owl the best chance for survival.

After an intense hour of surgery, weeks of care, physical therapy gra, dual flight therapy, and the last step of being banded, the owl was finally ready for release.

She flew beautifully and seemed to enjoy her freedom and the open fields she was accustomed to.

It was a long rehabilitation, and we were so hopeful of a successful and happy ending.

Did you know that in Pennsylvania, short-eared owls are endangered and protected under the Game and Wildlife Code? Although not listed as endangered or threatened at the federal level, the short-eared owl is a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Migratory Bird of Conservation Concern in the Northeast and a Partners in Flight North American Landbird Conservation Plan priority grassland species. All migratory birds are protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.