MADISON (WKOW) — A barred owl will return to the wild after a close call with a chimney.
The owl will be released at 5:15 p.m. today at the corner of Carver Street and Irwin Place in Madison, according to the Dane County Humane Society’s Wildlife Center.
Last week, the center received a call from a Madison resident when a barred owl became trapped in their old chimney not used for more than 20 years, according to a press release.
DCHS Wildlife Center volunteers John Kraak and Mike Minardi arrived to rescue the trapped owl but found the chimney damper rusted shut. After attempts failed to free the bird from the top of the chimney, Kraak and Minardi got creative and with the use of a vehicle jack and a 2-by-4 board were able to force open the rusted damper.
Kraak transported the scared owl back to Dane County Humane Society’s Wildlife Center.
Wildlife Center staff examined the bird and found no injuries or abnormalities. The barred owl has now gained a little weigh and is healthy enough to return home, according to the release.
If you find a wild animal you believe is in need of assistance, Dane County Humane Society’s Wildlife Center said it encourages you to find more information at giveshelter.org and call (608) 287-3235 before intervening.
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