A friend called a few weeks ago concerned about a baby owl that was in the fairway of the 6th hole at a local golf course. He asked if there was anything he could do to help it, or if he should leave it alone. What should we do with baby birds that appear helpless or stranded this time of year? Often fledgling birds appear abandoned but their parents are nearby and aware of their young, other times birds actually do need our help. In the case of the Screech Owl, it is common sense that a nocturnal bird that lives in trees should not be out in the open in the daytime. My suggestion was to put it in a nearby tree where it likely fell out, hoping the bird was not injured or sick. My friend did just that, and has seen it several times since, along with the other fledglings and parents. Thanks Seth, and thanks for the photo!

 Adult Screech Owl at its nest cavity.

 Baby Screech Owl

Baby Long-eared Owl