For the first time in her life, Hootie the great‑horned owl spread her massive wings and flew free at Floren Family Farms in Tularosa, New Mexico. The owl, found as a helpless owlette after a violent wind storm knocked her and a sibling from their nest, survived only because of a network of dedicated volunteers.
Local resident Jose Donnadieu described the moment as “almost like she was thanking you.” After her initial flight, Hootie perched in a nearby cottonwood tree, allowing onlookers to snap photos and share in the joy of her release.
From Rescue to Recovery
The rescue began when Cressie Drummond spotted the injured bird during a walk. The Floren family took Hootie in overnight, and Lisa Shydlower later transported her to the El Paso Zoo’s Raptor Rehab Center for treatment. There, veterinarians discovered an ear infection that threatened Hootie’s hearing and ability to hunt.
Dr. Vikki Milne, head veterinarian at the zoo, explained that the infection required careful cleaning but ultimately healed, allowing Hootie to regain full hearing. “If the damage had been permanent, she might have become a teaching animal at the zoo,” Milne said.
Volunteer Journey to Gila Wildlife Rescue
After clearance from the zoo, Shydlower and her husband Tom drove Hootie from El Paso to Silver City, NM, where they delivered her to Gila Wildlife Rescue. Owners Dennis and Denise Miller gave the rescuers a tour of their expansive backyard sanctuary, which includes ponds, grass fields, and custom‑built wooden cages designed to house a variety of wildlife.
Gila Wildlife Rescue has cared for more than 12,000 animals over its 47‑year history, ranging from raptors to deer, bobcats, javelinas and raccoons. “A bird has to fly to feed its spirit,” Dennis Miller said. “It’s almost a spiritual experience, a freeing for them to be able to fly free. I feel gratitude that we’ve been part of their healing.”
Community Impact
Visitors of all ages gathered at the farm to witness Hootie’s release, expressing how the event taught children the power of compassion. “I think it’s important that kids learn from a young age that we can make a difference,” one attendee remarked.
While it remains uncertain whether Hootie will return to the farm, the community hopes to catch glimpses of her in the wild, perhaps spotting a feather among the lavender bushes.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
