Rehabilitated barred owl released back into Boone County wild

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

BOONE COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) — A barred owl rescued in Boone County has been rehabilitated and released back into the wild, according to the Raptor Rehabilitation Project.

The owl, named “North Star,” was admitted after being found injured. Rehabilitation staff said the owl underwent a physical examination that revealed eye-related injuries, including retinal detachment in one eye and swelling in the other.

The owl was taken for an ophthalmology consultation and received pain medication, eye drops and supportive care before being moved into rehabilitation for continued treatment and flight evaluation.

After completing rehabilitation, North Star was cleared for release and returned to its territory in Boone County.

According to the organization, the owl gave a loud hoot upon release and received a response from another barred owl nearby.