Back to Wildlife Info

The Poisoned Owl

It's almost like something out of a thriller - a person does one small thing that spins out of control, affecting far more people (or in this case, living creatures) than anyone expected.

This barred owl was found in a backyard in Belfair, badly emaciated. 

Because it had no apparent injuries, our rehab staff sent out blood for analysis -- and learned that the owl had been poisoned.

Sadly, this happens fairly often. 

When people put out poison for rats and mice, they don't realize that raptors who feed on those rodents will also become sick.  Without help, animals in this position will certainly die.

Fortunately, this owl had anything but dying on its mind.

Our staff treated the owl by giving it fluids, a blood transfusion, and vitamins to counter the poison. After its initial treatment, the owl was placed indoors in the hospital, where it could have a warm, safe place to recover.

The emaciated owl proved to be a voracious eater, sometimes eating a whole rat or mouse per day (this is the kind of meal-size that's more normal for a bald eagle.) The rehab staff and volunteers were delighted to see it get better and better, day by day.

In time, the owl was moved outdoors to the new C. Keith Birkenfeld Flight Cage, where it could work on regaining its strength. It passed its prey test with flying colors and was happily released back to the wild!   

Photo: Dottie Tison


Read more about the owls of the Pacific Northwest or other owl patients we've treated at the Shelter.