A Minnesota woman's efforts to rescue two injured owls has garnered widespread attention, shining a spotlight on the unique challenges faced by wildlife rehabilitation groups. Annabell Whelan, 22, managed to save one great gray owl and one snowy owl this week, though the latter tragically had to be euthanized following severe injuries.
On Monday, Whelan, who works as a guest experience manager at the Lake Superior Zoo, spotted the injured great gray owl on the ground near Two Harbors, Minnesota. Without hesitation, she wrapped the owl carefully in a blanket and transported it to the Wildwoods Wildlife Rehabilitation Center for care. Once diagnosed, the center reported the great gray owl suffered broken bones and large soft tissue wounds on its wing.
“Veterinarians at The Raptor Center are doing everything they can to give this bird a chance at recovery,” the Wildwoods staff conveyed through social media updates. After initial assessment, it was clear the injuries were severe, but the staff remained hopeful for the bird’s survival.
Later the same day, during her outing with her boyfriend’s family, Whelan came across the second injured owl — the snowy owl. This unfortunate bird had collided with a vehicle, becoming lodged loose within the car's grille. Given the urgent circumstances, Whelan took the snowy owl home for the night after Wildwoods had closed for the day.
Both owls were eventually transferred to The Raptor Center at the University of Minnesota for advanced care. Sadly, the assessment for the snowy owl showed it had sustained severe internal injuries, along with broken wings and legs. Following careful consideration and evaluation, the Center decided euthanasia was the kindest option for the majestic bird. “Because the injuries could not be fixed and the bird would be unable to fly again, the kindest option available for this majestic wild bird was a peaceful passing via euthanasia,” Wildwoods announced on their social media.
This story highlights not just the fragile nature of wildlife but also the invaluable work performed by conservationists and animal rehabilitators. Organizations like Wildwoods and The Raptor Center play pivotal roles in rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife, often facing difficult decisions such as the one made for the snowy owl.
Whelan’s quick actions demonstrate the positive impact one individual can have on wildlife preservation. Even as the snowy owl's story ended sadly, the hope remains strong for the great gray owl’s recovery and rehabilitation efforts are cementing the core belief: every life matters. By sharing her experience, Whelan not only raised awareness of the plight of these birds but also highlighted the risks they face daily, from vehicle collisions to habitat loss.
Through such stories, the public is reminded of the importance of wildlife care and the continuous efforts required to protect native species. Conservationists are grateful for stories like Whelan’s, which inspire others to take initiative for the wellbeing of creatures within their communities.
The resilience of the great gray owl now sits at the forefront, with all eyes on the veterinary team working tirelessly to restore its health. While the snowy owl’s fate tugs at the heartstrings, it serves as one more reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the bittersweet reality of wildlife rehabilitation.
