Spunky baby owls examined after being found on soccer field

In a heartwarming turn of events, two baby great-horned owls were found on a soccer field in central California. The young owls, likely abandoned by their parents, were rescued and brought to the Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center for a thorough examination. The team at the center, led by Donna Burt, a biologist and founder of the facility, approached the situation with care, opting for a "hands-off" method to assess the health of the birds.

Great-horned owls, one of North America's largest species, are known to sometimes jump out of their nests before their babies are ready to fly. This behavior is common, but it poses a risk if the owls land in an unprotected area like a soccer field. Fortunately, these two owls were not injured when they were discovered, but they still required a check-up to ensure their well-being.

During a hands-off exam, veterinarians observe the bird's posture, movement, and behavior to gauge its health and detect any potential injuries. In this case, the team closely watched the owls as they stood, walked, and interacted with their surroundings. One owl was already on its feet, while the other was hock-sitting, a normal posture for owls of this age. Both birds displayed typical behaviors, such as snapping their beaks and spreading their wings in threat displays, which indicated that they were feeling well.

The exam also provided an opportunity to inspect the owls' eyes. Young great-horned owls often have a slight cloudiness in their eyes, which is normal and will clear up as they age. Additionally, the owls blinked by lowering their upper eyelids, a behavior that can sometimes be a threat display.

Great-horned owls reach their adult size by 10 weeks old and typically weigh between 2.5 and 4.5 pounds. These rescued owls, estimated to be four to five weeks old, are among the first baby owls the Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center receives each year. Owl pairs usually begin their courtship in November and lay eggs in late January or early February. The eggs hatch in March, marking the beginning of a new generation of these majestic birds.

The team at the Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center is dedicated to helping wildlife in need, and their hands-off approach to examining these baby owls showcases their commitment to minimizing stress for the animals while still providing the necessary care. As the owls continue to grow and develop under the center's watchful eye, they offer a poignant reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving natural habitats for these incredible creatures.