Owl of Athena at the rehabilitation center
(Video: Jewish National Fund)
A Little Owl, also known as an Owl of Athena arrived in recent weeks at the Agamon Hula Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (AWRC) in Israel, seeking refuge after being purchased and illegally held. The owl suffered from characteristic injuries seen in illegally held captive birds of prey, such as clipped feathers, trimmed talons, undernourishment due to improper feeding, and foot inflammation resulting from lack of flight and decreased perching conditions.
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The injured bird underwent comprehensive examinations to assess its physical condition and to determine if it had become habituated to human presence, which would hinder its survival in the wild.
"Fortunately, the injuries weren't severe, and it appears that the owl hasn't become habituated to humans, which is an encouraging sign of cautiousness," according to Rona Nadler Valency, a veterinarian and the director of the AWRC.
The owl was transferred to the rehabilitation facility, where it joined other nocturnal birds of prey, including two young Barn Owls. The intention is for the Owl of Athena to learn and emulate the natural behavior of the Barn Owls, which will enhance its chances of survival in the wild.
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The rescued owl perches in the rehabilitation facility
(Photo: Jewish National Fund, AWRC)
"Illegal trade of wildlife is still prevalent in Israel and remains an unacceptable and unlawful phenomenon. This harmful practice impacts captured wildlife, undermines conservation efforts for numerous species, and threatens the delicate balance of natural ecosystems," added Nadler Valency.
The AWRC was established in collaboration between the Jewish National Fund and Tel-Hai College, aiming to provide assistance and care to injured wildlife, particularly birds, in the Galilee and Golan regions.
According to the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, the Owl of Athena, scientifically known as Athene noctua, is a small and secretive nocturnal owl. Widely distributed across the country, this owl species is active both during the day and at night. It typically inhabits small, permanent streams and watercourses. It nests mainly in rock crevices, tree cavities, and sometimes even in the abandoned nests of magpies. Its diet primarily consists of larger insects, such as beetles, and also small birds like warblers and small rodents.