LEANDER, Texas – Leander police rescued a Great Horned Owl they found sitting in a puddle of mud on Wednesday.

  • Police rescue Great Horned Owl
  • Transported to wildlife rehab
  • Also known as the “tiger owl”

Officers rescued the owl and transported it to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. 

According to the Guide to North American Birds, this type of owl typically lives in a variety of climates, from swamps to deserts. During breeding season, the Great Horned Owl avoids the tundra and instead inhabits trees or heavy brush for camouflage.

It is also known as the “tiger owl” for its powerful approach to hunting. The prey of the Great Horned Owl is usually rabbits, hawks, snakes, and skunks. They often hunt at night, watching their unsuspecting prey from a high perch to swoop down for the kill.

The young owls leave the nest around 5 weeks old. They can fly around nine weeks, but are fed by their parents for the first several months of their lives.

Police advise anyone who comes across a wild animal who looks like it needs help to call animal services. They may be cute, but remember, they are still wild animals.