The bird was found unable to move near a park.
AUSTIN, Texas — An injured owl was recently rescued not far from one of Austin’s parks.
According to the Austin Animal Center, the owl struggled to fly or move when Animal Protection Officers arrived to help. Team members were able to help the owl, which was then transported to Austin Wildlife Rescue where it could receive medical attention.
The bird appeared to be a barred owl, which is commonly found in the eastern portion of the United States. These creatures have brown and white feathers with yellow beaks, and they live in Texas year-round.
If you encounter an owl or any other animal in need of assistance, the Austin Animal Center says you should not touch them directly. This is especially important to remember as bird flu spreads across several states, including here in Central Texas.
Just last week, reports of avian flu found in vultures in New Braunfels were confirmed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Before that, the viral infection was also discovered from dead ducks found at a North Austin shopping center.
This comes after other instances were recently accounted for across the state, in cities like Amarillo, El Paso and Lubbock.
Anyone who finds an injured or sick animal should contact an ambassador with the City of Austin at 3-1-1 or by calling 512-974-2000. The service is available every day throughout the year.