Owl released back into the wild after saved from snap trap by Tucson Wildlife Center | Local News

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – A Western Screech Owl narrowly escaped serious injury after getting caught in a snap trap. The Tucson Wildlife Center team successfully removed the trap and radiographs showed the owl was left with a tarsal abrasion on its leg, which is a skin injury.

According to TWC, snap traps, while often used for rodent control, pose significant risks to wildlife and pets. The traps often cause severe harm to animals, leading to crushed bones, amputations or fatal internal injuries.

TWC recommends humane alternatives like enclosed catch-and-release traps or rodent-proofing homes to prevent similar incidents.

After the owl received treatment and recovered, it was released back into the wild. 

Despite their name, Western Screech Owls rarely screech, TWC said in a Facebook post. They are year-round residents in Arizona, known for their soft, whistling calls and preference for nesting in natural tree hollows or nest boxes.

The Tucson Wildlife Center invites the community to support their efforts by donating through their website or purchasing items from their Amazon or Chewy wish lists. Recent donations have provided reptile patients with safe hideouts, greatly aiding in their recovery.