Tawny Owl rescued from Dorset wood burner
A Tawny Owl is scheduled for an eye examination after being discovered trapped and covered in soot within a wood burner flue. The bird had accidentally entered the chimney of a holiday home located on Dorset's Jurassic Coast in Upwey, near Weymouth.
Pest control expert Kenny Best, along with a log burner specialist, rescued the owl by disassembling the unused stove, which revealed the bird's talons. Mr. Best reported that the owl is currently receiving care at a bird sanctuary and is set to undergo a comprehensive eye examination after it was observed struggling to land properly.
Tenants at the holiday home during the New Year period reported hearing scratching sounds emanating from the flue. Mr. Best expressed his surprise at discovering the owl, stating, "We looked up at the flue and saw a pair of talons hanging down." Using a rod from his van, they managed to retrieve the owl, which was found to be covered in soot and unable to open its eyes.
The owl was then wrapped in a towel and taken to local wildlife conservationist Derek Davey. After cleaning and administering an eye wash, Mr. Davey noted that the owl appeared much happier and was eating well. However, despite regaining the ability to fly, the owl struggled to land accurately on a perch. Mr. Davey mentioned that he had not been able to determine the owl's gender, as it had not vocalized. He indicated that the owl would remain at the sanctuary until its condition was stable, at which point it would be released back into its natural habitat.
Mr. Best also mentioned that repairs are being undertaken on the holiday home's chimney to prevent similar incidents involving birds in the future.
9 January 2025
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