Saturday, 23rd August saw the 150th wild bird rehabilitated and released from the NZ Raptor Trust. An iconic milestone, and the honour goes to Little Owl/Ruru Nohinohi Jack.

Jack was discovered with injuries by Jesse and his hunting mates, Jack was sitting stunned on the side of the road, we think he may have been hit by a car. Collected by one of our regular “Uber Drivers” Gill from Oamaru and delivered up to the NZ Raptor team for assessment by the amazing team at Vetlife who are a key partner and sponsor of the NZ Raptor Trust.

With Vetlife’s expertise and the dedicated work of our Rehab Lead Volunteers Angie Tidy and Jenni Fraser Jack has been nursed back to health and strength ready to be released back to the wild.

Andy and Ann Powazynski generously hosted the release at their home in Weston and even supplied a delightful morning tea complete with a delicious chocolate, owl shaped cake to celebrate 150 releases and Jack himself.

Jack Briscoe who accompanied his Grandmother on the “uber drive” and this the Little Owl’s name sake was the releaser on the day, Little Jack seemed to love Big Jack’s company and didn’t flu off immediately, choosing his moment to allow for a few thanks to Jack and some photos.

Weighing in at approx. 180g and 23cm long, the Little Owl stands up to its name. A small grey, brown and white streaked owl and surprisingly for an owl is often seen perched out in the open during the day predominately throughout the drier open country of the eastern and northern South Island.

Established in 2016, The NZ Raptor Trust, has released 103 Hawks, 4 Falcons and 43 Owls culminating in this release of the 150th Bird rescued, rehabilitated and released back to the wild in just 9 years.

They receive calls from across the Canterbury and Otago regions from members of the public who have found injured birds of prey known as raptors such as Hawks, Falcons and Owls, if you find an injured bird please call our rescue hotline and speak to Jenni on 021 896 268.

Concentrating on the rescue and rehabilitation then ultimate release back to the wild of these stunning birds. The Trust are now doubling down on their efforts with the recent DOC issued permit for Captive Breeding of Falcons at their site in Timaru. This will see Falcons that are unable to be released back to the wild, become potential breeding pairs with their fledging chicks being released into the wild. To help build the facility you can donate via https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/help-us-bring-stella-home or the NZ raptor website.

The trust are also keen to receive donations of food; rabbits, hares, venison and chickens. Please contact Jenni or via the facebook or website to understand the needs and requirements.

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