Trapped Owl Rescue – California Wildlife Encounters

Another late night rescue call. Michele Dodge received a report for an owl that was trapped inside a fireplace in Citrus Heights. The homeowner stated it had been inside their fireplace for a few days and was getting weaker everyday. Michele called me and asked me if I would like to help. Of course I’m always happy to assist an animal in need. We arrived on scene and inside the fireplace was a Western Screech Owl that was hanging upside down and its talons were firmly stuck to the metal chain screen curtain of the fireplace. Our ArmOR Hand Gloves allowed for the protection we needed as well as the dexterity. Michele acted quickly and was able to free the dehydrated owl. The owl was covered in thick black chimney soot and was very weak. We immediately starting calling after-hour emergency veterinarian hospitals and everyone we called refused to help the little owl. I even offered to pay for medical fees and provide my own handling skills but all refused to help because it was a wild animal. Many more phone calls were made and we finally were able to convince a vet hospital to take it overnight. I’m hopeful that the owl can recover.

– Ben Nuckolls, California Wildlife Encounters