Del Norte, United States - September 30, 2024

In a heartwarming tale of wildlife rehabilitation, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) in the Southwestern Region celebrated not one, but two successful releases of Great Horned Owls back into the wild, marking a dual victory in their conservation efforts.

The journey began with a female owl discovered in a cabin within the San Juan National Forest, her leg ensnared by wire, leading to a severe injury. Prompt action by SJNF personnel and a surgical intervention by Dr. Hawman at Durango Animal Hospital saved her limb. Transferred to CPW’s Frisco Creek Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Del Norte, she underwent a meticulous recovery process, transitioning from a vulnerable fledgling to a robust juvenile, ready to take flight.

Her release-mate, an adult male, had a different path of peril and recovery. Found near Lake Nighthorse after being struck by a vehicle, suffering head and eye injuries, he was initially cared for by a private rehabilitator before arriving at Frisco Creek to regain his flying prowess.

Both owls, after months of rehabilitation, including learning to hunt and strengthening their flight capabilities, were deemed fit for release in September. The release site, near where the male was originally found, saw both owls take to the skies in a display of their full recovery. The male, in an unexpected twist, took a playful swipe at the camera before soaring off, while the female lingered briefly, posing majestically amidst wildflowers before disappearing into the pine forest.