Patient of the Week – A Grounded Great Horned Owl
With piercing yellow eyes, feathered “horns,” and an unmistakable hoot, great horned owls are impressive nighttime neighbors. But when one adult owl was found grounded near Broadway and Prudence Road, this powerful predator needed help.
The owl was discovered on October 6, initially lying on its side. By morning, it could perch and climb but still could not fly. It arrived at Tucson Wildlife Center on October 7, where the veterinary team noted signs of head trauma and the owl was given anti-inflammatories and pain meds for head trauma. The cause of the injury is not known.
There were some encouraging findings: the owl was in good body condition, its feathers were in good shape, and the initial examination found no obvious fractures. The team provided supportive treatment, including fluids and medication, to help stabilize the patient.
For an owl, returning to the wild requires more than being able to stand or perch. These skilled hunters depend on coordinated flight, keen senses, and precise movements to find and capture prey. Great horned owls have exceptionally sensitive hearing, aided by facial feathers that direct sound toward their ears. Their nearly silent flight helps them approach prey without giving themselves away.
And those distinctive “horns”? They are tufts of feathers! The actual ear openings are hidden beneath feathers on the sides of the head.
This owl’s story is a reminder that even a formidable hunter can become vulnerable. Thanks to the person who recognized that something was wrong, this patient reached professional care and received a chance of recovery. Stay tuned for a release update!
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