Long Sault, Ontario – A young Great Horned Owl separated from his family is safe and sound after being discovered in a grassy area at Woodlands Beach on Thursday evening.

Student worker Sawyer Gillard was trimming the area around the beach when he discovered the owl sitting in some long grass. Unsure as to what to do, Sawyer consulted with colleagues, Amber Flipsen and Nick Smith. It was apparent that the owl was young as it still had down on its body and was unable to fly. The team then consulted with the Wild Bird Care Centre in Ottawa for advice.

It was determined that the owl was indeed a Great Horned Owl from the description and as they are the only owls nesting this time of year. A volunteer from the Wild Bird Care Centre visited the beach on Friday to collect the Great Horned Owl to care for until it can be released back into the wild or found a permanent home in a wildlife sanctuary. The Centre will stay in touch with the Park and give updates on the owl’s progress and plans for its future.

As for the discovery of the owl on the ground, apparently it is quite common for juveniles to fall out of a tree before they are able to fly. The Great Horned Owl is the classic owl of storybooks and is the largest common owl in North America.

The Parks of the St. Lawrence campgrounds, beaches and nature areas offer a great environment for leisure activities including watching wildlife.