A snowy owl also known as the Arctic Owl (Bubo scandiacus), a species rarely seen in the Azores, was rescued on the island of Flores and then transferred to the Wild Birds Recovery Centre of Corvo Natural Park, where is recovering until it can be freed.
This bird of prey that inhabits the icy regions of the USA, Canada and Northern Europe, beyond the Arctic, lives in the open tundra, from the edge of forests up to the polar seas. During the winter, it travels long distances to the south.
The bird found in Fajã Grande by a local inhabitant was taken by technicians from the Flores Environmental Services and was examined by the veterinarian of Lajes Town Hall.
Once stabilised, the owl was transferred to the Wild Birds Recovery Centre of Corvo Natural Park, a space dedicated to the recovery, rehabilitation and reintroduction of wild birds.
The bird, which has no injuries, has a problem in the caudal feathers, which currently prevents it from flying normally, so it will remain at the Wild Birds Recovery Centre until is able to fly.