Another #SuperbOwl for you this Sunday, this one a Screech Owl from New England (Massachusetts). He was freed from a chimney cavity and needed an eye wash from all the soot. A good reminder to install chimney caps! Full story below:

Original post – 12 Nov 2021
by New England Wildlife

located in South Weymouth, Massachusetts, US
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Original text:

Move over Santa, you have some competition this year. This Eastern Screech owl decided to spread some cheer when he flew down the chimney of some local residents. Once inside he became trapped and was stuck perching on top of the closed flu vent. Thankfully he did not stay quiet about his discontent, and managed to alert the homeowners by loudly hooting throughout the night. They called us for assistance and this morning we dispatched our rescue team to help.

After locating the bird it was clear he could not exit on his own, and he made it quite clear that he was not thrilled with his predicament. After a brief tussle in the chimney we were able to safely retrieve him and transport him for care . Back at our hospital he received a full veterinary exam and both owl and Zak had their eyes flushed because of all the soot they kicked up in the process. The owl is in remarkably good shape considering his ordeal, and is now convalescing in an indoor shift cage for the evening. After a short observation period we will flight test him, and if all goes well we will release him back to the wild where he will hopefully stick to delivering presents the owl fashion way.

Believe it or not, this is the second chimney-owl we have treated in as many weeks. Screech owls are cavity nesters, which means they make their homes in hollowed out trees and other small dark places. Chimneys can often look an appealing option until they get inside and don’t have appropriate substrate to climb out. Open chimneys can also attract squirrels, mice, and raccoons who are in the market for a safe place to nest and have their young. This can pose a number of health risks for the animals and the homeowners and often results in costly repairs. Purchasing a chimney cap for your home is a cheap and easy way to exclude wildlife and ensure you do not have any unwanted visitors. Don’t worry however, we hear that chimney caps do not work on Santa – Just wildlife and grinches

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Link to donate to New England Wildlife Center for those willing and able.

xo owlsintowels

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