Rare Burrowing Owl

A burrowing owl flew into a local business in Lynnwood over the weekend. Once inside, she repeatedly flew into windows in an attempt to escape before she was captured. The owl was presumed to have suffered some head trauma based on her abnormally quiet mentation. Our animal care team immediately provided intravenous fluid treatment and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling in the brain. The treatment worked as the bird had a marked improvement in responsiveness and coordination within 24 hours of admission. We are planning a release tomorrow as she has made a full recovery. As this bird was banded, we know she hatched last year in the Nicola Valley of British Columbia. With a little assistance from our wonderful team, she is ready to continue her migration north. Learn more about this species from Seattle Audubon’s Birdweb.