Annabell Whelan found herself in a flurry of emotions as she awoke on Tuesday, eagerly checking on the snowy owl she had taken in the previous night. The owl, named Nowl, was rescued after a harrowing incident involving a car in Duluth, Minnesota. The 22-year-old Whelan was spending the day with her boyfriend’s family when she encountered the injured bird shortly after the collision, where it had become stuck and seemed disoriented. Although help had been summoned prior to her arrival, the animal rescue organization that could assist was not operational at that hour.
Earlier that same day, Whelan had also come across another owl—this time a great gray owl—lying injured on the ground in Two Harbors, Minnesota. Knowing how to handle such situations, she reached out to Wildwoods, a local wildlife rehabilitation center, for guidance on how to retrieve the bird safely. Whelan, who graduated recently with a degree in biology and environmental science, reflected on the day’s events, admitting she felt she had already done her part by rescuing one owl earlier.
Whelan took her time with the first owl, noticing it was struggling with its vision. Patience was key as she gently spoke to the bird to gain its trust. After carefully wrapping the owl in a blanket to ensure its safety, she transported it in a dog crate to Wildwoods, where it would be treated before being sent to the University of Minnesota’s Raptor Center.
However, the situation with the snowy owl was far more severe than the earlier incident. Whelan immediately recognized the extent of the injuries and the trauma the snowy owl had experienced. With Wildwoods closed for the night, she took it upon herself to create a safe environment. She wrapped Nowl in a blanket and placed her in a quiet, dark room in her home, shielding her from the curious pets that might have caused further distress. The name Nowl was chosen as a clever twist on ‘noel,’ adding a personal touch to her rescuer’s efforts.
As dawn approached, Whelan braced herself for the possibility of bad news, fearing the worst for the snowy owl. To her relief and joy, when she checked on Nowl, she found the bird alive and moving, which prompted a wave of happy tears. She quickly transported the owl to Wildwoods for examination.
A post from Wildwoods on social media provided updates on Nowl’s condition, noting that she was in a difficult state but receiving the necessary care. The organization emphasized the importance of vigilance when it comes to wildlife, urging the public to remain alert for injured animals and to seek help promptly. Animals, they noted, can be easily frightened, and should be placed in a calm, safe environment as they await professional assistance.
