From Raptor Center of Tampa Bay

We received our first baby barred Owl of the season today. However, the owl’s low weight renders it unable to return to its nest. It is concerning to note the food choices people provide to wild animals.

Last night, an elderly couple in their 80s picked up the owl from their yard and fed it dog food, cooked chicken, and green beans.

The owl arrived in a severely dehydrated state and is struggling. We have treated the owl and provided initial nourishment, and we are hopeful it will survive until morning.

We thank Becky Willis for once again dropping what she was doing and coming to the aid of the owl.

Feeding sick or injured animals things they can’t suggest can kill them! Please don’t feed them, just get them to your local rehabber to give them the best chance of survival.

  • Optional
    2•9 hours ago

    Good to know! That should be, like, on the sidebar!

    So why do we always want to intervene with another species we probably know nothing about?

    I think we’re kept in perpetual ignorance by a media system that can’t make money off of letting things be and so our only understandings come from cartoons or fairy tales or some such.

    Then when you’re faced with a dehydrated or emaciated creature you think, “well, water or food is required”.

    Good intentions, not enough knowledge.

    • anon6789OP
      2•9 hours ago

      That should be, like, on the sidebar!

      Ah, but it is! I think that guy added soon after OotY ended.

      I see some pretty wild stories about what people think is “helping” animals. 😳 I just keep getting the word out.