Barn owl rescued in Chittoor

A rare barn owl created a flutter at Murukambattu Circle here on Saturday (March 7). The bird was found near Sri Kolatta Amman temple premises.

The bird, which appeared weak and unable to fly, was spotted by locals in the vicinity of the temple. Rajendra, a retired Assistant Sub-Inspector of Police, safely secured the owl and alerted the Forest officials, who took custody of it.

The officials identified the bird as a barn owl, a nocturnal raptor known for its heart-shaped face and silent flight. Not commonly seen in busy localities during daytime, the species is known for inhabiting remote farmlands and forest fringes.

A forest official said the owl would be examined and, if it is fit, released back into its natural habitat.