From South African Wildlife Rehab Center
On Thursday evening, just before midnight, Lauren MacLeod received an urgent call from the Matthews family in Van Dyk Park. They had discovered a young Spotted Eagle Owlet sitting soaking wet and exceptionally vulnerable in the middle of the road after a storm.
Over the phone, Lauren quickly assessed the situation and guided the family on how to dry the owlet and keep it safe through the rest of the night. With no clear idea of where the owlet's nest might be or how to ensure its safety if returned, the decision was made to bring the owlet in for further care and rearing the following day.
By Friday morning, the owlet was on its way to Park Vet for a full health check. There, Dr. Nicole Napier and her daughter Erin were instantly charmed by the young bird, whom the Matthews family affectionately named Frederick.
After receiving a clean bill of health, Frederick was transferred to us, where he will receive the best care possible. He'll be fed a nutritious diet, given ample space to stretch his wings and learn to fly, and eventually be prepared for a soft release into a safe and suitable environment.
A HUGE "thank you" goes out to the Matthews family for their quick action and their generosity in sponsoring Frederick's care during his time with us. Recognizing the need to support our work makes a world of difference and helps us provide the best for these gorgeous creatures!
Here's an adult Spotted Eagle Owl this young one will get a chance to grow up to be:
I hear them called all sorts of things. Ears, horns, tufts, and I'm sure there's more. Everyone seems accepting of whatever people want to call them. Their technically correct name is a very fun word though: plumicorns!
I'm not sure why we don't get more owl memes with the popularity of O RLY.