Unusual Rescue Operation in Smolensk Firefighters in Smolensk, Russia, extended their rescue efforts beyond human emergencies to save an injured Ural owl. Found outside their fire station on Monday morning, the bird was being attacked by crows due to its incapacitated state.
Immediate Response to Save the Owl The owl, identified as a Ural owl (Strix uralensis), was discovered with a damaged wing. Quick to respond, the firefighters intervened, driving away the crows. They carefully transported the owl inside the station, providing it with warmth and necessary nourishment.
Veterinary Care and Rehabilitation Plans Following the initial rescue, the owl was taken to a local veterinarian for an x-ray and further medical attention. Plans are underway to transfer the bird to a dedicated wild bird rehabilitation and reintroduction center, ensuring its return to the wild.
Eyewitness Account and Recovery Outlook Natalia Arbuzova, a press officer, recounted the firefighters’ timely action upon noticing the owl at 07:00 GMT. She detailed their efforts to shelter the owl from light and feed it, emphasizing the firefighters’ compassion. The bird is expected to fully recover and will remain under veterinary care until it is ready to be relocated to the rehabilitation center.
