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(Bubo virginianus). Patient Number 25-9
Date of admission: Jan 12, 2025.
Reason for admission: Dermatologic Disease.
Patient History:
In 1977, the children of Alberta were asked to vote for a provincial bird. The children selected the great horned owl to be Alberta’s provincial bird, a title the species retains to this day. Great horned owls are one of Alberta’s most recognizable birds, easily identified by their 'horns'. Great horned owls are commonly found across the province, but wooded areas and river valleys are their preferred habitats. They are permanent residents of Alberta; these owls have adapted well to the cold temperatures of the winter months.
Like most owls, great horned owls are most active at night. Their excellent eyesight and hearing make them formidable predators during the evening and overnight hours. These owls prey on several species of birds and rodents, but will also prey on hares. Great horned owls pair for life, with both owls caring for the young (owlets). Two or three eggs are laid each year at the end of February, or in early March.
This Great Horned Owl came into care after they were rescued from a cow manure pile in Picture Butte, AB. Not only was this owl covered in manure that clung to their down, but they were also highly emaciated. Thankfully, they’re self-feeding well and have preened much of the manure out of their feathers.
Our clinic team has opted not to give this owl a full bath, as bathing non-waterfowl birds can cause dangerous levels of stress. Instead, the team is providing the owl with misters to help speed along the preening process. This owl will remain in care until its overall body condition has improved, its feather quality is restored and it is able to fly and hunt again on its own.