Adair Witmer and her family were preparing to leave their cottage in Falls, Pennsylvania, when an unexpected sight brought their plans to a halt.
Ashley, Witmer’s daughter, was startled by a strange lump resting in the middle of the road.
Concerned it might be someone in trouble, Ashley quickly called out to her family. She asked them to take a closer look and help figure out what the mysterious shape could be.
They turned their attention to the spot Ashley had pointed out, and what they saw left them speechless.
An Unlikely Encounter On The Road
The figure in the road turned out to be a great horned owl.
Though the bird appeared just as surprised to see them, it didn’t attempt to flee. It remained seated in the road, likely frightened and unsure.
“We couldn’t believe it,” Witmer told The Dodo.
Because it was broad daylight, the family suspected something was wrong with the owl.
Moved by compassion, they decided to help. Christine, another of Witmer’s daughters, contacted the local game commission for assistance.
Neighbors joined the Witmer family in their effort to protect the bird. Together, they gently wrapped the owl in a blanket and placed it inside a carrier.
Though the owl didn’t yet understand, it was finally safe.
When the game commission officer arrived, he examined the owl and transferred it to a secure container.
He believed the bird was still young and unable to fly due to weakness. He transported it to the commission’s animal shelter so it could rest and recover.
Healing Begins For The Young Owl
Once the owl regains its strength, it will be released back into the wild where it belongs.
Witmer and her family were relieved to know the owl was safe.
“We were relieved, to be sure!” Witmer added.
The great horned owl had the good fortune of crossing paths with a family willing to help.
No longer scared or alone, the bird now receives the care it needs.
From a frightened creature stranded in the road to a calm and hopeful owl with a future ahead.
This story serves as a powerful reminder of how kindness can change the course of a life. May we always be ready to help the vulnerable animals who need us.