From Doc’s Veterinary Wildlife
The “Goshen Owl” was found last week unable to fly. Upon presentation, he had weakness in his right wing as well as the inability to fully use his left leg. X-rays showed pelvic and spinal trauma most likely from being hit by a car. Treatment included medicine for pain, laser therapy, and plenty of rest and supportive care. Over a week later, he is doing better and is once more able to fly, however needs more time for his leg to improve. These cases can take a long time to heal.
I’ve been nipped through basic leather gloves by a few Screeches, and that isn’t too bad, but a Barred Owl is much bigger!
I saw a video the other week of a falconer training either a GHO or an eagle owl, and he was so proud it flew to his glove on command for the first time. Then the video went to slow motion, and the owl just chomps him right on the nose. Bam!
Needless to say, he didn’t seem to enjoy that bit at the time! 😄
It’s part of the excitement of animals though. I had a squirrel bite down on me a few times on the wrist right past the glove cuff the other week. That hurt a decent amount!