Baby GHO (PS - Please don't feed wild animals!)

From Carolina Raptor Center

Our first baby of the year has arrived!

This tiny Great Horned Owl is likely only a few days old. This owlet was transferred to us from the Carolina Wildlife Center after being found by a caring community member. Wanting to help, the finder followed advice they found online and offered the owlet egg yolk and sirloin.

It's important to say that this came from a place of compassion. The finder was trying their best and ultimately made the most important decision which was getting this baby in the right hands.

We do want to stress that feeding a any raptor can be dangerous. Baby birds of prey require a very specific diet, and their delicate down feathers and developing bodies can be harmed by improper food or feeding. If you find a bird that needs help, please avoid giving food or water and contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator right away, like the Carolina Raptor Center.

When this owlet arrived, our team performed a careful intake exam, checked their breathing, gently cleaned egg residue from their feathers, and placed them in a warm incubator. They're now receiving specialized nutrition and expert care to ensure they have the best chance to grow up strong and return to the wild.

Want to help support and learn more about patients like this throughout the baby season? Join us for our upcoming Baby Shower on March 7th as we celebrate baby raptors and the work our dedicated team puts in to help them along in their journeys.

I love CRC! One of the first stops on my journey to becoming a raptor super-fan! Check out their Caracaras, King Vulture, and Chaco Owl!