High Hopes

This barred owl had high hopes of capturing and consuming a mouse meal recently. Unfortunately the mouse to be eaten had been caught on a "sticky trap" and the owl was unaware. As a result, the feathers on this bird were covered in the sticky adhesive on the mouse trap. Flight for the bird came to a halt. Safety for this bird was at risk.

An angler on the Cedar River noticed the owl and gave me a call. The plan was for a combined effort to capture the owl to transport for treatment. But, before I even arrived at the scene the owl was captured and ready to move to the rehabber.

Our owl is now in the care of Terese with Black Hawk Wildlife Rehabilitation Project. The owl will get a food grade oil bath to loosen the adhesive followed by a treatment with Dawn dish washing detergent to remove the gummy material.

So often our rescue efforts end sadly. Terese and I have high hopes that this owl will soon be mousing again along the Cedar River. This team effort, assuming there are no complications, should be successful.

Thanks to the homeowners, Bill, and Terese for your efforts to help this beautiful and very spunky bird!