A family in Virginia, USA, had an unexpected visitor during the Christmas season.
A wild barred owl flew into their home through the chimney, according to a social media post by the Animal Welfare League of Arlington. Once inside, the owl landed on the family’s Christmas tree, displacing the star to become the tree’s star itself.
Meanwhile this owl makes itself a Virginia family tree topper pic.twitter.com/bfoXFirk1F
— Karli Bonne’ 🇺🇸 (@KarluskaP) December 21, 2024
In a video clip shared by the Animal Welfare League, the owl can be seen wandering around the house, to the delight of two small children heard laughing at the sight of the bird. The owl explored the kitchen for a few moments before returning to the Christmas tree.
“ Twas the week before Christmas, and perched on the tree was an unexpected visitor as majestic as can be!
This beautiful Barred Owl decided to play Santa and drop in—literally—through the chimney of a local home, and declared himself the newest star on top of their Christmas tree (look closely – you’ll see he knocked the old star over to make room for himself). Sgt Murray answered the call, gently capturing our feathered friend and safely releasing it back into the wild.
P.S. This is a great reminder to keep your chimneys capped this season to prevent curious critters from coming to visit!
P.S. THIS IS A REAL PHOTO! Check the comments to see the owl and Sgt Murray in action. You can help us continue to save wildlife in Arlington County by donating to our Wildlife Resource Center: https://www.awla.org/donate/choose-a-fund/wildlife/“
Also read: Pedieos stray dogs captured