Distressed baby owl brought into Treasure Coast Wildlife Hospital twice in one week

MARTIN COUNTY — A young great horned owl has visited the Treasure Coast Wildlife Hospital in Palm City twice in the past six days — but not because it's lost.

Each time, well-meaning residents found it, thought it was distressed and brought it to the wildlife hospital.

Corinna Germinario, an animal care specialist at the hospital at 2800 S.E. Bridge Road, said the owl was originally brought in Thursday after people called the Martin County Sheriff's Office saying it didn't look well.

The owl, which hasn't been identified as male or female yet, was brought to the hospital. Animal care specialists released it back into the wild Friday. 

According to the Martin County Sheriff's Office Facebook page, an owl was brought into the Treasure Coast Wildlife Hospital on Saturday morning after a worker at Port Mayaca Cemetery, 23900 S.W. Kanner Highway, saw it struggling to fly.

Animal care specialists there recognized it as the same owl.

Germinario said it's currently mating season for animals such as owls. During this time, she said it's common for baby owls to see their parents fly and want to mimic their behavior.

While the hospital isn't sure what happened to the owl, they believe it was attempting to fly before it was ready. 

"Owls will fall out of the trees because they want to fly," she said.

More:It's eagle nesting season on the Treasure Coast

According to the National Audubon Society website, great horned owls can leave their nests at 5 weeks old and often fly at the age of 9 to 10 weeks.

These owls, the website notes, are aggressive and powerful in hunting and take prey as varied as rabbits, hawks, snakes, skunks and even porcupines. It is sometimes known by nicknames such as "tiger owl."

Germinario said if you see an owl or other wild animal that looks distressed you should "not pick it up and should call animal services."

The owl is still at the hospital, and it is unclear when the bird will be released, but Germinario said it will be soon.

As of Wednesday, Germinario said the baby owl is doing well and will be tested to ensure it's able to catch mice before it's released.

More:Blue Cypress Conservation Area a prime spot to see Florida wildlife