A young great horned owl found under a palm tree in Redondo Beach has prompted police to release a public service announcement video to educate residents about how to respond to such new birds.
The owl was brought in by Redondo Beach Animal Services after being found on the ground, a condition that may seem worrisome but is often part of the normal growth phase for young owls, according to Redondo Beach Police Det. Avello, who did not give his full name.
In VideoAvello said the goal is to educate the public about what to do if they encounter young owls.
“At this age where they have flight feathers or budding feathers, they’re starting to branch out and learn to fly and move around,” Avello said.
He said Redondo Beach’s local geography could make this phase more difficult.
“Unfortunately there are a lot of palm trees in Redondo Beach and it’s not a good home for owls because there are no branches for them to learn to fly from,” he said. “You’ll find that at this age these owls will actually drop to the ground and that’s where they do all their learning.”
According to the non-profit organization heywl Research InstitutionThis stage is known as fledgling, when the young birds leave the nest and begin exploring their surroundings before they are fully capable of flying. During this time, the owlets are still under parental care. This period can last for weeks.
“Don’t worry, their parents are still taking care of them. You’ll see mom and dad still coming down to feed them,” Avello said.
The video advised residents not to approach or touch the owlets and to keep pets and children away to avoid stress on the bird.
“If you see them, don’t panic, just leave them where they are,” the detective said.
However, he said anyone who finds a young owl should not hesitate to call the Redondo Police Department Animal Control if it looks like a dog or other animal is about to approach them.
