FREDERICKSBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — On April 2, the Wildlife Center of Virginia admitted its first baby raptor of 2025 — a nestling Great Horned Owlet from Fredericksburg, Virginia. The owlet had fallen out of its nest and was found on the ground. Rescuers initially planned to re-nest the young bird, but noticed its eyes were cloudy. Concerned the owlet might be blind, they brought it to the Center for evaluation.

On admission, the owlet, weighing only 633 grams, was bright and alert. The veterinary team examined the owl and did not find any injuries. An ophthalmic exam did reveal slight haziness in both of the bird’s eyes, but fortunately it was not a concern – the haziness was identified as “neonatal cataracts,” a normal developmental phase for owls.

“When raptors – particularly owls – are still very young, their eyes have not fully developed and they have mild cataracts, which resolve over time,” said Alex Olvera, the Center’s rehab supervisor. “Overall, the owl was very healthy and likely fell out of the nest while starting to venture out on branches, or possibly because of a storm.”

Young owls go through several stages of development before they are fully grown and ready to fly. For young nestling owls, climbing on branches is normal – but it’s also risky for those that aren’t yet coordinated.

As the owl was deemed healthy, the veterinary team determined that the best course of action was to return the owlet to its nest. Despite the Center’s best efforts, rehabilitators cannot fully replicate the care provided by wild parents. Reuniting the owl with its parents would give it the best opportunity to learn essential survival skills and thrive in the wild.

On April 3, with assistance from rehabilitator Brenda Gentry of Chickahominy Wildlife, the owlet was successfully returned to its nest site and reunited with its sibling. A camera was installed at the nest to monitor the owlet and ensure it was being cared for by its parents. It didn’t take long for the parents to return to the nest, bringing food to the chicks – marking a successful re-nesting.

“I love all wildlife, but raptors are a special interest,” said Brenda. “Re-nesting is one of the most rewarding parts of wildlife rehab—it keeps wild families together, supports natural development, and gives young animals the best shot at survival. It’s conservation and ethics in action!”

One of several native species of owls found in Virginia, Great Horned Owls typically mate and lay eggs during late January and early February, with incubation periods lasting about 30 days. These Fredericksburg nestling owls are likely one month in age. In several more weeks, they will be ready to fledge and leave the nest, but will remain with their family for up to a full year before dispersing.

If you find a young bird that you suspect has fallen from its nest, contact the Wildlife Center for advice on what to do. Many birds, like this owl, can be re-nested; others may need to come in for treatment. Never attempt to raise orphaned birds on your own, as birds need specialized care. For more information on how to help young birds, visit wildlifecenter.org/baby-bird.