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 owls' health.

Great-horned owls, one of North America's largest species, often exhibit a unique behavior where they jump out of their nests before their babies are fully capable of flight. This is not uncommon, as the parents continue to care for the young on the ground. However, this behavior is typically observed in protected areas, not on open soccer fields. The discovery of these owls on the field raised concerns for their safety and well-being.

Upon arrival at the Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center, the two owls, estimated to be four to five weeks old, were examined without direct physical contact. This hands-off approach allowed veterinarians to observe the owls' movements, posture, and behavior to gauge their overall health and detect any potential injuries. The owl on the left was already standing, while the one on the right was "hock sitting," a common posture for owls of this age, where they sit back on their legs.

Both owls displayed typical behaviors for their age, such as snapping their beaks and spreading their wings in threat displays. These actions indicated that they were feeling well and in good spirits. Additionally, the team was able to check the owls' eyes during the examination. They noticed a slight cloudiness, which is normal for young great-horned owls. The owls also 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 they typically weigh between 2.5 and 4.5 pounds. The Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center receives baby great-horned owls every year, as owl pairs 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 cycle for these majestic birds.

The team at the Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center was pleased with the owls' overall health and prognosis. With careful observation and minimal intervention, the young owls were found to be in good condition, and their future looked bright. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation and the critical role that facilities like the Stanislaus Wildlife Care Center play in protecting and preserving these incredible creatures.