Green Eyed Lil Monster

From The Janet L. Swanson Wildlife Hospital at Cornell University

The arrival of winter at the Swanson Wildlife Hospital means an influx of owls that have been hit by a car. Although eye injury is a common problem in these owls, a more rare occurrence is a bright green iris. This occurs when blood, inflammation, and other factors combine to create the right conditions for this to occur. The beautiful green color usually only lasts a day or two, as medications (and the owl's own healing) bring it back to its normal coloration.

This particular screech owl did excellent, and was discharged to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for eventual release back to the wild.