Zack the Spotted Eagle Owl sadly spread his wings for the last time recently at the brilliant ripe old age of 22. However, without rescue intervention, his last years wouldn’t have been nearly as wonderful as they were. Here’s why Zack’s story will fly on forever:
Hartebeesport, South Africa (09 February 2024) — The Owl Rescue Centre frequently shares positive updates on rescues regarding owls and many other animals they take under their wings. Recently, Zack the Spotted Eagle Owl’s story was recapped in honour of the gorgeous bird having spread his wings for the last time. But, despite his passing (at the brilliant, ripe old age of 22) his story has a very happy undertone.
Five years ago, the Spotted Eagle Owl lived a very different life. When it was time for Zack to retire from the Sun City bird park, the Owl Rescue Centre’s team weren’t entirely sure what the best route for him would be.
Zack was already in his ‘golden years’ at 17 years old and had lived in captivity for so long that it made the case tricky.
The puzzle pertained to whether Zack should live what was thought would be his last days in confinement, or whether he should fly free. The answer might seem obvious, but when certain animals are so used to captivity and are habituated to humans, setting them free in old age can be risky.
“We do put a lot of careful consideration into each case for the best outcome for the patient…our sanctuary however is especially set up in an ideal location within a protected conservancy, to provide a safe and controlled environment where these owls can live as free owls, with regular monitoring and under our protective support,” says the ORC.
ORC decided to take the chance to give Zack his last days in freedom. As it turns out, those days turned into five whole years.
“He had the best days of his life over the last five years,” they added.
Zack the Spotted Eagle Owl stands as a beacon of what care, consideration and a chance can give you. This is why conservation efforts matter so much, and why his story will fly on forever.
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