Two environmental conservation officers were involved in the rescue of an injured Snowy Owl in Cattaraugus County last month. ECOs Chris Freeman and Darci Dougherty were traveling along Route 242 in the town of Napoli on December 20 when they were flagged down by a local farmer who was trying to keep the injured owl from entering the busy roadway. The owl was unable to fly because of a broken wing. After several attempts, Freeman was able to capture the owl by covering it with his jacket. The ECOs made arrangements to have the owl picked up by a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. The owl has since undergone surgery and is currently recovering in the rehabilitator's care.
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| ECO Freeman with injured owl |
Photos provided by State DEC |
