An endangered Tasmanian Masked Owl was lucky to escape serious injury after becoming entangled in roof mesh.
‘Idun’ was found stuck on the roof of a house in the state’s south by a member of the public on Sunday.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary’s 24/7 rescue service was called and discovered the owl’s talons were stuck, leaving him unable to free himself.
The rescue effort involved Vincent from De Groot Roof Painting, who used his roofing equipment and expertise to safely remove Idun from the mesh.
“Although he seemed to be tired from his ordeal, it appeared he had escaped without any severe injuries and thorough examination under anaesthetic thankfully revealed no serious wounds or fractures,” the sanctuary said.
“Idun suffered some soft tissue trauma and inflammation on the foot that had been trapped, likely from repeated effort to free himself.”
The veterinary team confirmed these injuries are minor and treatable.
The owl is now under the care of a specialised raptor rehabilitator and is expected to make a full recovery.
“Hopefully, after a short period in care, he will be ready for release,” the sanctuary said.
The Tasmanian Masked Owl is listed as endangered, with habitat loss due to deforestation and urbanisation, along with competition from invasive species like feral cats, major threats to the species.
