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A Virginia family had an unexpected holiday visitor come down their chimney a week before Christmas. A wild barred owl flew into a home through the house’s chimney, the Animal Welfare League of Arlington said on social media. Once in the home, the owl landed on the family’s Christmas tree, displacing the star that was already there to do so. In a video clip shared by the Animal Welfare League, the owl can be seen swooping around the house, much to the delight of two young children who can be heard laughing at the bird. The owl explored the kitchen for a few moments, then returned to the Christmas tree.
For those in doubt that the photos of our ‘Christmas Tree Owl’ were real, here is a great video of the owl in the home and being released! We are thrilled that so many people have shared the story of this owl rescue – it’s made our day! If you’d like to help us continue to help wildlife in need in Arlington County, please consider making a donation to our Wildlife Resource Center: www.awla.org/donate/choose-a-fund/wildlife/
Thank you to the homeowners for allowing us to share these videos!Posted by Animal Welfare League of Arlington on Friday, December 20, 2024
“And back on the tree,” one of the children says. Later in the video, the owl is captured and carried outside by an Animal League employee identified as Sergeant Murray. The bird flew back off into the night.
🎄 Twas the week before Christmas, and perched on the tree was an unexpected visitor as majestic as can be! 🎄
This…Posted by Animal Welfare League of Arlington on Thursday, December 19, 2024
The Animal Welfare League said that capping chimneys during the winter will help prevent “curious critters,” including birds, squirrels and bats. Wildlife may use a chimney to hunker down and avoid cold air and wind during the winter, and some species may even use them as dens while giving birth, according to home solutions company HY-C. Capping a chimney can also prevent leaves, snow and other debris from falling down the shaft.
Kerry Breen
Kerry Breen is a news editor at CBSNews.com. A graduate of New York University’s Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News’ TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news and issues including substance use.
