Rare Owl’s Recovery Offers Hope for Species Future

An animal clinic has stated that a Short-Eared Owl, which received treatment for multiple injuries, may contribute to safeguarding its species’ future. This bird of prey, classified with an amber risk status on conservation records, was found in Stourbridge, West Midlands, on Sunday. A member of the public transported the owl to The Falconry Centre in nearby Hagley, after which it underwent surgery at Evolution Exotics clinic in Cleobury Mortimer, Shropshire. Liz Hanson, who co-manages the facility alongside veterinarian Marie Kubiak, reported that the owl’s sex was undetermined, but confirmed it was recovering well and would be observed over the next few weeks. Regarding the Short-Eared species, Ms. Hanson commented, “You don’t see many of them.” She further noted, “They are quite rare, I’ve never seen one before.” Diagnostic examinations revealed the owl sustained four fractures across two bones and a puncture wound to its left eye. Clinic personnel indicated that if the owl is deemed unsuitable for future release, it might be transferred to a breeding center to aid in the species’ conservation. Ms. Hanson, a Stafford resident with 22 years of nursing experience, mentioned the owl was slightly underweight and its recovery trajectory would be contingent on its healing process. She stated, “It’s in a bit of a bad state at the minute but coming through it which is great.” Additionally, she advised anyone encountering injured wildlife to transport the animals to veterinary clinics, ensuring they receive professional care. The Falconry Centre expressed its hope for the bird’s complete recovery and its eventual “returned back to the wild where he belongs.” A post on Facebook further specified that the estimated expenses for the owl’s care amounted to approximately £1,200, appealing for donations. The post highlighted, “The Short-Eared Owl is the second-rarest owl in the UK,” and emphasized, “Getting this little fellow back into the wild is vital for conservation of his species.”